The Ocular Rosacea Picture

Ocular Rosacea is an inflammatory eye condition often associated with rosacea. Ocular rosacea can cause a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. Ocular rosacea may also manifest itself as inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps, eyelashes that may fall out, compounded by bloodshot eyes (Dr. Thiboutot). The ophthalmic signs of ocular rosacea can vary widely, including blepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, hypopyoniritis, and even keratitis. The term ophthalmic or ocular rosacea covers all these signs. The most frequent signs, which may never progress to a more severe condition, are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts; quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which ocular rosacea is often confused. Pain and light sensitivity may also be present. The ocular complications of rosacea are independent of the severity of facial rosacea (Drs. Gerd Plewig & Albert M. Kligman).