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What You Need to Know About Demodex Blepharitis (DB)
Questions about DB
Demodex blepharitis is an eyelid disease caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites, tiny mites found on humans.1,2 An infestation of these mites leads to a buildup of crusties (collarettes) on the base of the eyelashes. Collarettes are a clear sign of DB.3
It’s important to make an appointment to see an eye doctor and ask them to check your eyelids if you’re dealing with eyelid redness, itching, swelling, and crusties (collarettes).
Demodex blepharitis (DB) is more common than people may realize, affecting around 25 million eye care patients in the US. Many people don’t even know they have it.3,4
Although it’s possible to spread DB through shared personal items (like pillows and combs), it’s highly unlikely because Demodex mites can’t survive long without a live host. The mites are also specific to humans, so pets are not considered a factor in the transmission of DB.5,6
However, DB can be mistaken for allergies to pets in the absence of an eyelid check from an eye doctor because the signs and symptoms are similar.
Yes, people from all backgrounds and across different ages can get DB.3,7
Questions about treating and managing DB
Only an eye doctor can diagnose Demodex blepharitis (DB). That includes both ophthalmologists and optometrists, so you can see whoever is easiest for you.8
Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry (OD) and specialize in routine vision care, prescribe contact lenses, and diagnose and manage some eye conditions.8
Ophthalmologists are Medical Doctors (MDs) and can diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries for a variety of eye conditions and diseases.8
Read more about getting a diagnosis of DB.
There are multiple options available that can help ease symptoms and treat DB, including over-the-counter (OTC) products, in-office procedures, and a prescription eye drop.1,2
Read more about the treatment options available and discover what might work for you.
If you’re experiencing signs and symptoms of DB, it’s important to get your eyelids checked by an eye doctor. In addition to the challenge of continuing to experience signs and symptoms, ignoring them can leave you prone to more serious eye-related conditions.1
1. Fromstein SR, Harthan JS, Patel J, Opitz DL. Demodex blepharitis: clinical perspectives. Clin Optom (Auckl). 2018;10:57-63.
2. Rhee MK, Yeu E, Barnett M, et al. Demodex blepharitis: a comprehensive review of the disease, current management, and emerging therapies. Eye Contact Lens. 2023;49(8):311-318.
3. Trattler W, Karpecki P, Rapoport Y, et al. The prevalence of Demodex blepharitis in US eye care clinic patients as determined by collarettes: a pathognomonic sign. Clin Ophthalmol. 2022;16:1153-1164.
4. O’Dell L, Dierker DS, Devries DK, et al. Psychosocial impact of Demodex blepharitis. Clin Ophthalmol. 2022;16:2979-2987.
5. Liu J, Sheha H, Tseng SCG. Pathogenic role of Demodex mites in blepharitis. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;10(5):505-510.
6. Bitton E, Aumond S. Demodex and eye disease: a review. Clin Exp Optom. 2020;46(9):1-9.
7. Elston CA, Elston DM. Demodex mites. Clin Dermatol. 2014;32(6):739-743.
8. Churchill J, Gudgel DT. What is an ophthalmologist vs optometrist? American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/what-is-ophthalmologist
