Periorbital dermatitis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Periorbital dermatitis
Synonyms	Periocular dermatitis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Rash around the eyes, itching, redness, scaling
Complications	Infection, scarring
Onset	Any age, more common in adults
Duration	Can be chronic or recurrent
Types	N/A
Causes	Allergic reaction, irritants, cosmetics, topical steroids
Risks	Use of topical corticosteroids, cosmetic products, contact lenses
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, patch testing
Differential diagnosis	Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Avoidance of triggers, topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics, emollients
Medication	Metronidazole, doxycycline, tacrolimus
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	Rarely life-threatening

Periorbital dermatitis is a dermatological condition characterized by inflammation of the skin surrounding the eyes. This condition is often marked by redness, scaling, and itching, and can be a source of discomfort and cosmetic concern for affected individuals.

Causes

Periorbital dermatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Allergic reactions: Contact with allergens such as cosmetics, fragrances, or topical medications can lead to dermatitis.
• Irritants: Exposure to harsh chemicals or environmental pollutants can irritate the sensitive skin around the eyes.
• Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can contribute to the development of dermatitis in the periorbital region.
• Systemic conditions: Conditions such as atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis can manifest in the periorbital area.

Symptoms

The symptoms of periorbital dermatitis may include:

• Redness and swelling around the eyes
• Itching or burning sensation
• Flaking or scaling of the skin
• Formation of small blisters or pustules

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of periorbital dermatitis is typically made through clinical examination. A dermatologist may perform a thorough assessment of the affected area and inquire about the patient's medical history and exposure to potential irritants or allergens. In some cases, a skin biopsy or patch testing may be conducted to identify specific allergens or rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for periorbital dermatitis often involves:

• Avoidance of triggers: Identifying and avoiding contact with known irritants or allergens is crucial.
• Topical treatments: Corticosteroid creams or calcineurin inhibitors may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
• Oral medications: In severe cases, oral antibiotics or antihistamines may be recommended.
• Moisturizers: Regular use of gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizers can help maintain skin hydration and barrier function.

Prevention

Preventive measures for periorbital dermatitis include:

• Using hypoallergenic and fragrance-free skincare products
• Avoiding rubbing or scratching the eyes
• Protecting the skin from harsh environmental conditions
• Maintaining good hygiene practices

See also

• Dermatitis
• Atopic dermatitis
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Contact dermatitis