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Ocular Rosacea

Eye involvement of rosacea; a disease form that progresses with dryness, redness, burning, and recurrent eyelid inflammation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ocular Rosacea?

Ocular rosacea is the clinical form of rosacea disease that progresses with eye involvement. Approximately half of rosacea patients develop eye findings at some point; in some patients, eye findings may begin before skin findings.

Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eye syndrome, recurrent stye and chalazion, conjunctival redness, and in advanced cases keratitis can occur. If untreated, it can progress to corneal ulcer and vision loss.

Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and the presence of skin rosacea. Joint follow-up by a dermatologist and ophthalmologist is important for disease course.

Symptoms

Dryness, burning, and stinging in the eyes
Redness and light sensitivity in the eye
Redness and scaly crusting on the eyelids (blepharitis)
Frequently recurrent stye and chalazion
Foreign body sensation and excessive tearing
Eyelids sticking together in the morning
Blurred vision and corneal findings in advanced stages

Risk Factors

Existing skin rosacea diagnosis
Fair skin and middle age
Female gender (more severe course in men)
Triggering by hot, spicy, alcoholic beverages
Excessive heat and sun exposure
Long-term screen use (increases dry eye)
Contact lens use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Recurrent eye redness in rosacea patients
  • Blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light
  • Frequent stye, chalazion, and eyelid inflammation
  • Findings unresponsive to dry eye drops
  • Pain or opacity detected on the cornea

Treatment Methods

01
Warm compress and eyelid hygiene applications
02
Artificial tears and lubricant drops
03
Oral low-dose doxycycline (anti-inflammatory dose)
04
Topical ivermectin or metronidazole (for skin component)
05
Cyclosporine or lifitegrast eye drops in advanced cases
06
Joint dermatologist-ophthalmologist follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.