ENTROPION
( INTURNED EYELIDS )
Entropion is the inward turning of the eyelids. It causes the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye, resulting in discomfort, red eyes and tearing.
Causes of an entropion may include
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Ageing
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Congenital (inborn)
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Scarring due to prior eyelid infections like herpes or trachoma
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Chemical burns or previous surgeries
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Uncontrolled blinking or squeezing of the eyelids (blepharospasm)
Symptoms
and Signs
of an Entropion
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Eye irritation or pain
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Excessive tearing or discharge
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Constant eye redness
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Intermittent blurred vision
If untreated, the constant rubbing of the eyelash against the cornea surface may result in the following complication :
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Corneal abrasions
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Eye infections
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Corneal scarring
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Permanently Impaired vision
Diagnosing an Entropion
Our specialists will assess the position of the eyelids and the various factors that may have contributed to the condition, such as eyelid laxity, muscle weakness and eyelid scarring. Examination will also allow assessment of the eye surface for cornea abrasions, scarring or infections.
An entropion is often confused with other conditions that may cause the eyelashes to rub against the eye, such as inturning of the eyelashes (trichiasis), misdirected growth of eyelashes (distichiasis) or a prominent roll of lower eyelid muscles that pushes the lashes against the eye surface (epiblepharon). Epiblepharon is common in Asian children and may cause the child to tear or rub the eye frequently.
It is important to distinguish between these various conditions, as the treatment can be very different.
Treating the Entropion
If the entropion is due to blepharospasm or uncontrolled blinking of the eyes, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to relax the eyelid muscles may help.
However, if the entropion is due to laxity of the eyelid or ageing, surgical treatment is often required to correct it. Surgery will also be needed for entropion due to scarring of the eyelids.
Lubricating eyedrops or eye ointments can provide temporary relief from the rubbing of the lashes on the eye. These are usually prescribed during the interim period to protect the eye, while awaiting surgery.