Topical IL-1-Ra for Treatment of Posterior Blepharitis

Safety and Efficacy of Topical Interleukin-1-Receptor Antagonist in the Treatment of Signs and Symptoms of Posterior Blepharitis

The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness and safety of Topical Interleukin-1-Receptor Antagonist in treatment of signs and symptoms of posterior blepharitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A diagnosis of posterior blepharitis
• A negative urine pregnancy test result for women of childbearing potential
• Women of childbearing potential must agree to use adequate contraception (hormonal or barrier method of birth control) prior to study entry and for the duration of study participation
• Normal lid position and closure
• Ability to understand and provide informed consent to participate in this study
• Willingness to follow study instructions and likely to complete all required visits.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or ocular pemphigoid
• History of eyelid surgery
• Intra-ocular surgery or ocular laser surgery within 3 months
• History of microbial keratitis, including herpes
• Active ocular allergies
• Corneal epithelial defect > 1mm2
• Use of topical steroids or Restasis within the past 2 weeks
• Use of tetracycline compounds (tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline) within the last month
• Use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months
• Have had any previous treatment with Anakinra (Kineret®) or any therapeutic agent targeted at IL-1 blockade
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Signs of current infection, including fever and current treatment with antibiotics
• Liver, renal, or hematologic disease
• The use of any other investigational drug