Entropion

What is it?

This term describes the inversion of the eyelid with the eyelashes turned inward, and most commonly involves the lower than the upper one. The eyelashes rubbing against the surface of the eye cause continuous ocular irritation leading to significant keratoconjunctivitis and in some cases corneal ulceration.

Causes and risk factors

Entropion is caused by several factors: skin laxity, cantal laxity, dislocation of the retractor compartment and orbicularis muscle of the eye.

Which are the symptoms?

The patient has reversal of the cilia with the palpebral rim facing the inside of the eye, complains of hyperlachrymation, "epiphora," and even develops "keratitis" from rubbing the eyes. One can observe scleral showing more or less evident, that is the lower margin of the limbus (the colored part of the eye, iris) should be touched by the lower eyelid margin, instead in the ectropion this is descended and loose downward with appearance exposing the clera (the white part of the eye) at that level.

  • Inversion of the cilia
  • Keratitis
  • Epiphora
  • Scleral show
  • Eyelid laxity

How is it diagnosed?

On objective examination: inversion of the tarsal rim with the lashes facing inward including rubbing against the eye, epiphora (hyperlacrimation), corneal keratitis, mucosization of the tarsal rim, verticalization of the tear duct.

How is it treated?

The surgical intervention varies according to the case, from the removal of a small portion of the tarsal to more extensive interventions such as the tarsal strip.

Suggested procedures

Where do we treat it?

Within the San Donato Group, you can find Entropion specialists at these departments:

Are you interested in receiving the treatment?

Contact us and we will take care of you.