Corneal Effects of Tea Tree Oil.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study is to report a case of corneal epithelial defects resulting from topical treatment of blepharitis with tea tree oil (TTO).

METHODS:

A 44-year-old man with a 1 year history of blepharitis non-responsive to eyelid hygiene was found to have signs of Demodex infestation. He was treated with a topical, off-label 50% TTO solution. Shortly afterward, the patient complained of bilateral ocular discomfort.

RESULTS:

Slit-lamp examination revealed conjunctival injection and a corneal epithelial defect in both eyes. Treatment with lubricant, antibiotic, and steroid eye drops as well as bandage contact lenses was required to facilitate corneal healing.

CONCLUSIONS:

Topical use of off-label, 50% concentration TTO can result in corneal epithelial defects. Eye care professionals should remain aware of this risk and only use approved, low-concentration TTO products when treating Demodex-related blepharitis.

• Authors: Brindhan Tharmarajah, Minas Theodore Coroneo
• Journal: Cornea (Cornea) Vol. 40 Issue 10 Pg. 1363-1364 (Oct 01 2021) ISSN: 1536-4798 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 34074891 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Anti-Infective Agents, Local
• Tea Tree Oil

Topics

• Adult
• Anti-Infective Agents, Local (adverse effects)
• Blepharitis (drug therapy, parasitology)
• Corneal Diseases (chemically induced, diagnosis)
• Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions (diagnosis, etiology)
• Epithelium, Corneal (drug effects, pathology)
• Eye Infections, Parasitic (drug therapy, parasitology)
• Humans
• Male
• Mite Infestations (drug therapy, parasitology)
• Slit Lamp Microscopy
• Tea Tree Oil (adverse effects)