Understanding Denny-Morgan Lines: Signs, origins, and remedies
Dennie-Morgan (DM) lines, also known as atopic pleats, Dennie folds, Morgan folds, and infraorbital folds, are infra-orbital skin folds or creases under the eyes that are often associated with allergic conditions. These lines are not a disease in themselves but a marker of underlying allergic disorders.
Causes
DM lines occur due to chronic allergic inflammation, leading to repeated rubbing and swelling of the lower eyelid skin. This inflammation is commonly linked to atopic dermatitis (eczema), allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and other Type I hypersensitivity reactions. The inflammation and irritation cause subtle edema and folding of the skin under the eyes, resulting in visible lines.
Symptoms/Clinical Presentation
Visible horizontal infra-orbital creases or folds under the lower eyelids (Dennie-Morgan lines) are the most notable symptom. These lines often accompany other allergic signs such as dark circles or "allergic shiners" due to sinus congestion, nasal symptoms, eczema, and asthma or wheezing in some cases.
Treatment
The primary approach to treating DM lines is to address the underlying allergic or eczema condition. For atopic dermatitis, the use of emollients (moisturizers) and topical corticosteroids is recommended. Topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus may be used for delicate skin like the face. For allergies, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and allergen avoidance are common treatments. In persistent or severe eczema, immunomodulatory agents like dupilumab or Janus kinase inhibitors may be considered.
Avoiding irritants that worsen skin inflammation, such as harsh detergents, excessive bathing without moisturizing, and environmental triggers, is also crucial.
Relation to Allergies and Eczema
DM lines are strongly associated with atopic conditions, especially eczema (atopic dermatitis) and allergic rhinitis. They often appear in children or individuals with personal or family histories of atopy, including asthma and hay fever. The lines serve as a visual clue to underlying allergic inflammation, often reflecting chronic histamine release and skin changes due to allergic reactions.
In summary, Dennie-Morgan lines are a visible clinical sign linked to chronic allergic inflammation, particularly eczema and allergic rhinitis. Management focuses on controlling these underlying allergic conditions to reduce the lines and associated symptoms.
It's worth noting that cosmetic treatments may also help address DM lines, but it's best to work with a dermatologist, who may need to do some patch testing to avoid products someone may be sensitive with. Laser therapy and dermal fillers can be potential options, but their effectiveness may vary from person to person.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7428567/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6883933/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5572080/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6812479/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6568976/
- Dennie-Morgan lines, also known as infraorbital folds, are usually associated with chronic allergic inflammation.
- The inflammation leading to Dennie-Morgan lines is connected to various medical conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
- Excessive rubbing and swelling of the lower eyelid skin due to this inflammation are the causal factors for Dennie-Morgan lines.
- Regular use of emollients and topical corticosteroids is recommended for addressing atopic dermatitis, a condition related to Dennie-Morgan lines.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus may be used for managing atopic dermatitis in delicate skin areas such as the face.
- In the case of allergies, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and allergen avoidance are common treatments.
- In persistent or severe eczema, immunomodulatory agents like dupilumab or Janus kinase inhibitors might be considered.
- Avoiding harsh detergents, excessive bathing without moisturizing, and environmental triggers is vital in managing Dennie-Morgan lines.
- Dennie-Morgan lines often appear in individuals with a history of atopy, including asthma and hay fever.
- These lines serve as a sign of underlying allergic inflammation, often reflecting chronic histamine release and skin changes due to allergic reactions.
- Laser therapy and dermal fillers can be potential options for treating Dennie-Morgan lines, but their effectiveness varies from person to person.
- Cosmetic treatments for Dennie-Morgan lines should be done under the guidance of a dermatologist, who may need to do patch testing to avoid products that a person may be sensitive to.
- The medical literature recommends various resources on Dennie-Morgan lines, including [1], [2], [3], [4], and [5].
- Chronic inflammation and irritation related to Dennie-Morgan lines can also impact overall eye health.
- For maintaining eye health and addressing Dennie-Morgan lines, healthy diets rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants are essential.
- Additionally, supplements designed for eye health can support the body in combating inflammation and promoting skin health.
- With sleep being crucial for overall health and wellness, ensuring proper sleep hygiene can indirectly affect the severity of Dennie-Morgan lines.
- In workplace wellness programs, addressing the impact of chronic conditions like chronic kidney disease, COPD, type 2 diabetes, and cancer is essential for improving employee health.
- Respiratory conditions, digestive health, hearing, and neurological disorders are among other health concerns that need to be considered in workplace wellness programs.
- Aging can lead to changes in the skin, worsening visible lines such as Dennie-Morgan lines. Maintaining a healthy diet and skincare routine, including taking care of the skin under and around the eyes, is important for combating these changes.
- Family history plays a role in the development of Dennie-Morgan lines and other skin conditions, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about genetic predispositions and taking preventive measures.
- Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune disorders, mental health, men's health, women's health, multiple sclerosis, migraine, cardiovascular health, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and skin-care are some fields of health and wellness that impact Dennie-Morgan lines and their treatment options.
