Different Eyelash Diseases

Loss of hair of the eyebrows and eyelashes is referred to as madarosis. Although typically a patient will seek out a doctor's advice because of the hair loss, very often madarosis is simply a symptom of a more serious underlying problem, according to a 2008 report in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology."

Inflammation

• Blepharitis, also known as inflammation of the eyelids, can be caused by seborrheic dermatitis or a bacterial infection. Eye symptoms include crusty, red, swollen, itching and burning eyelids, a gritty sensation when blinking and eventually loss of eyelashes, according to the National Institutes of Health Medline Plus website.

Infections

• Staphylococous aureus can cause infections involving the eyelids and eyelashes. Thin, honey-colored flakes appear on the eyelashes and lead to eyelash loss, whitening and misdirection. Tuberculosis, scarlet fever, and herpes zoster are examples of other severe bacterial infections that can cause madarosis.

Autoimmune Disorders

• Madarosis can be a presenting sign in autoimmune disorders, such as discoid lupus erythematosus, or it can transpire as a result of others, such as lupus erythematosus and sclerderma.

Tumors

• Eyelash loss can occur as a result of both benign and malignant tumors, such as chalazion, lymphomas and sebaceous carcinoma of the eyelids.

Endocrine disorders

• Endocrine disorders also directly affect madarosis. Hypothyroidism causes thinning, breakage, eyelash shortening and loss, and hyperthyroidism causes eyelashes to become brittle, dull, and course.

Treatment

• Treatment of madarosis involves identifying the underlying medical condition and treating it appropriately.