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What Is Eyelid Margin Disease?

By Troy Bedinghaus, O.D., About.com

Updated: May 30, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Question: What Is Eyelid Margin Disease?
Answer: The eyelids play an important role in the health of the eyes. They protect the cornea and spread tears over the front of the eyes. Although several conditions can affect the eyelids, most eyelid disorders do not threaten vision.

Eyelid margin disease refers to a common condition in which the eyelids are persitently inflamed. The condition produces dandruff-like flakes and debris that collect on the eyelashes and eyelid margins. Patients with eyelid margin disease typically complain of constant itching, stinging, burning and redness.

Blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid margin, is one of the most common eyelid problems. Blepharitis is an uncomfortable condition that usually produces inflamed and itchy eyelids, but it doesn't permanently damage eyesight. Blepharitis can begin during childhood and may last throughout life. The best way to treat blepharitis is with good eyelid hygiene, including regularly cleaning the lids and lashes.

Source:

American Academy of Ophthalmology, Eyelid Margin Disease, Including Blepharitis. Medem, 2004.

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