Rosacea is Not a Disease

Rosacea is not a disease; rather, it is a chronic dermatologic condition that predominantly affects the convexities of the central aspect of the face, especially the forehead, nose, cheeks, chin and lid margins. Careful clinical observation is the key to diagnosis. Ocular rosacea may progress to hordeola/chalazia, bacterial keratitis, corneal ulceration, perforation, neovascularization and opacification if not appropriately managed. Effective treatment of rosacea includes avoiding triggers, topical and oral antibiotic therapy, topical and oral retinoid therapy, topical vitamin C therapy and in extreme cases, cosmetic surgery.-- courtesy of Joseph J. Pizzimenti, OD, FAAO, Associate Professor, Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, Fort Lauderdale, FL.