Entropion

Entropion and trichiasis

Eye with entropion

An entropion occurs where an eyelid turns inwards towards your eye. This causes the eyelashes to rub against the front of your eye (the cornea). Trichiasis is the medical term used to describe the eyelashes turning in against the front of the eye. The lower eyelid is most commonly affected.

Entropion symptoms

• Irritation and pain on the front of the eye.

• A watery eye.

• If left untreated, the front of the eye (the cornea) may become damaged (a corneal ulcer may develop). The cornea is vital for vision and a damaged cornea may affect eyesight.

Entropion causes

In the UK, entropion mainly occurs in older people, associated with weakness of the small muscles around the eyelid.

The main cause of entropion worldwide is trachoma. This is a common infection in tropical countries, which affects the front of the eye. This can lead to scarring and disruption to the eyelid, which makes it turn inwards.

Less common causes include scarring (from eye infections, trauma, Stevens-Johnson syndrome or chemical damage) or muscle spasm (spasticity). Rarely, you can be born with a defect that causes the eyelid to turn inwards.

Entropion treatment

If the cause is likely to be temporary, such as an infection or minor injury, the following may be enough until the condition recovers:

• Taping the eyelid to your cheek; or

• Injecting the muscles of your eyelid with botulinum toxin.

Lubricating eye ointment is often prescribed in the meantime to protect the front of your eye (cornea).

What is entropion repair surgery?

If you have a condition which is unlikely to recover by itself, you will be offered surgery. A small operation is performed to turn the eyelid back to its normal position. This stops the eyelashes from rubbing on the eye. The operation is usually successful and prevents any further damage to the front of the eye.

Dr Mary Lowth is an author or the original author of this leaflet.