Causes of Blepharitis

Causes of Blepharitis: An Overview

Blepharitis occurs in two forms:
 
  • Anterior blepharitis (affects the front of the eyelid)
  • Posterior blepharitis (affects the inner eyelid).
     
The causes of blepharitis for each of these forms differ.
 

Causes of Anterior Blepharitis

Anterior blepharitis affects the front portion of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are attached. The two most common causes of anterior blepharitis are:
 
  • Bacteria (Staphylococcus)
  • Scalp dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis).
     

Causes of Posterior Blepharitis

Posterior blepharitis affects the inner eyelid (the moist part that makes contact with the eye) and is caused by problems with the oil (meibomian) glands in this part of the eyelid. Two skin disorders that are often causes of posterior blepharitis include:
 
  • Acne rosacea, which leads to red and inflamed skin
  • Scalp dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis).
     
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD