Chronic, sterile inflammation of meibomian gland is seen in: September 2010
**Core Concept**
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the meibomian glands in the eyelids, leading to a sterile inflammatory response due to blocked or abnormal meibomian glands.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The chronic inflammation in MGD is thought to be due to the obstruction of the meibomian gland orifices, which leads to an accumulation of meibum (a type of sebum) and a sterile inflammatory response. This response is characterized by the presence of neutrophils and lymphocytes, which infiltrate the affected gland and lead to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as MGD is not typically associated with an infectious etiology, unlike blepharitis, which is often caused by bacterial or fungal infections.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as rosacea is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the skin, but it is not specifically associated with the meibomian glands.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as seborrheic blepharitis is a type of blepharitis that is characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins, but it is not specifically associated with the meibomian glands.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
MGD is a common cause of dry eye syndrome, and it is essential to consider MGD in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with chronic eye irritation or dryness.
**Correct Answer:** B. Rosacea.