Evaluation of the effectiveness of complex treatment of blepharitis using photodynamic therapy

Purpose: To optimize methods of comprehensive treatment of blepharitis using photodynamic therapy (PDT). Materials and methods. The study involved 80 patients, who were randomly assigned into two groups: a control group and a main group. Participants in the control group underwent conventional therapeutic measures, including hygienic cleansing of the eyelid margins with a 0,02% furacilin solution and topical application of 1% tetracycline ointment. In the main group, along with standard therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) was additionally used. Results and discussions. Integration of photodynamic therapy into the treatment protocol significantly accelerated the resolution of the inflammatory process. By the third day of treatment, the inflammation index had decreased by 2,92 times, and by the eighth day, all patients in the main group exhibited complete regression of eyelid inflammation. Clinical manifestations such as eyelid swelling and hyperemia showed a notable reduction within 4–5 days in the PDT group, whereas in the control group these symptoms subsided only by day 6. Furthermore, pathogenic microflora was eliminated in 85.4% of patients in the main group within 4–5 days, while in the control group complete microbial clearance was achieved only after 6–7 days. Conclusions. The inclusion of photodynamic therapy in complex treatment increases the effectiveness of blepharitis therapy. PDT ensures faster elimination of inflammatory signs, promotes eradication of pathogenic microflora in 85,4% of cases, and reduces the duration of treatment by an average of 5–6 days.