Evaluation of Treatment Option for Demodicosis in Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2019-12-13
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Demodex blepharitis is a prevalent cause of comorbid infection among individuals undergoing
cataract surgery. Several complications may arise in the postsurgical period from
Staphylococcus or Streptococcus co-infections, as Demodex is a vector for these pathogens.
Hence, prophylactic treatments before cataract surgery may lead to a reduction in
complication rates. Since Demodex infestation and cataract surgery are two prevalent
coexisting conditions in the general population, this study aims to test the effect of four
combined treatments to eradicate or improve the Demodex infestation index before surgery. The
investigators are conducting a single-blinded randomized trial of four therapies in
participants undergoing cataract surgery. All participants will or are receiving daily eyelid
cleansing bid and topical 0.3% ciprofloxacin q4h for three days added to the allocated
treatment arm. Our four intervention groups are: [1] Blephaclean eye scrubs; [2] 50% dilution
baby shampoo; [3] tea tree oil shampoo; [4]: topical 0.3% ciprofloxacin alone. To assess
treatment efficacy, the investigators will perform eyelash hair epilation pre and
postoperatively. The primary outcome is a change in the mean Demodex spp. infestation index.
Also, a change in the crude number of Demodex (egg, larvae, nymph, or adult-form) spp. in
eyelashes after one-week of therapy.