Ectropion
Alternative Names
EctropionWhat is Ectropion
Ectropion is a condition when your lower eyelid turns out, leaving the inner eyelid surface exposed. Ectropion is common in older adults. When you have a severe form of ectropion, the entire length of the eyelid is turned out. When ectropion is mild, only one segment of the eyelid turns out from the eye.
Signs and symptoms
The most common symptoms of this disease include:
- irritation
- excessive tearing
- excessive dryness
Possible complications
The most serious complications of ectropion are irritation and damage of the cornea.
Corneal irritation may cause:
- corneal abrasions
- corneal ulcers
- eye infections
- corneal ulcers can threaten vision
What causes
The causes associated with ectropion include:
- congenital
- aging
- scarring
- mechanical
- allergic
- facial nerve palsy
- anti-cancer treatments such as erlotinib, cetuximab, and panitumumab, which block the function of EGFR (the epidermal growth factor receptor)
Prevention
Unfortunately this disease is unpreventable. You can use artificial tears or lubricating in order to prevent corneal complications.
Treatment
It is recommended to consult the doctor concerning the treatment plan. Your doctor may advice you artificial tears may relieve dryness and keep the cornea lubricated. In some cases it is recommended to use surgery to tighten the muscles that hold the eyelids in place. It may be done as outpatient surgery with local anesthesia.
