Rosacea and the eye: a recent review

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Rosacea is a prevalent, chronic skin disease that is characterized by transient or persistent erythema, telangiectasia, papules, and pustules. Although it is primarily referred to as a cutaneous condition, rosacea can affect the periorbital skin and eye, manifesting itself in a variety of ways. Currently, preventative treatments that include avoidance of environmental triggers and control of symptoms via the use of both systemic and topical treatments have shown only moderate success. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent findings in this field and suggest possible future therapeutic drug targets for more effective treatment options in the future.

Areas covered: Numerous studies have suggested that neurovascular dysregulation, the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system are likely responsible for the cutaneous and ocular manifestations of this disease. However, little is known about the specific mechanisms underlying the development and persistence of rosacea. We review the current pathophysiology and try to assess which areas show the most promise for further research.

Expert commentary: Further research should be aimed at identifying specific components of the immune system, including toll like receptor pathways and downstream kinases that may serve as possible therapeutic targets in this disease.

KEYWORDS:

• Dry eye disease
• innate immune system
• Meibomian gland disease
• ocular surface disease
• rosacea

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties. Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose

Additional information

Funding

This paper has not been funded.