Med Lasers.  2024 Dec;13(4):203-212. 10.25289/ML.24.034.

Effect of micro-vibration treatment in a blepharitis rat model

• Park S
• Kim H
• Cho KJ

• KMID: 2564469
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.25289/ML.24.034

Abstract

Background
Blepharitis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the eyelid margin, can cause significant discomfort and impair the quality of life. While traditional treatments like eyelid hygiene and medications are often insufficient, non-invasive therapies such as micro-vibration devices are gaining popularity despite minimal empirical validation. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a commercially available microvibration device in a rat model of blepharitis.
Methods
Blepharitis was induced in rats using complete Freund’s adjuvant injections. The treatment groups included micro-vibration (180 Hz), micro-vibration with thermal enhancement, and pharmacological interventions with cyclosporine or hyaluronic acid. Ocular signs, including tear break-up time (TBUT), fluorescein staining, eyelid swelling, and telangiectasia, were assessed weekly. Immunohistochemical analysis quantified inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α) in ocular tissues.
Results
The micro-vibration therapy significantly improved TBUT, reduced eyelid swelling, and lowered inflammatory cytokine levels. Combining thermal therapy with micro-vibration yielded enhanced antiinflammatory effects, though uncontrolled heating caused tissue damage. Pharmacological treatments were effective but less comprehensive compared to micro-vibration therapies.
Conclusion
Micro-vibration therapy at 180 Hz demonstrated substantial efficacy in alleviating symptoms of blepharitis and reducing inflammation. However, the uncontrolled thermal function of the device posed safety concerns, emphasizing the need for stringent regulation and parameter control in commercially available devices. This study highlights the potential of micro-vibration therapy as a non-invasive treatment for blepharitis while underscoring the importance of device safety.

Keyword

Blepharitis; Micro-vibration; Consumer product safety