Synonyms in a broader sense
inward inversion of the eyelid edges, malposition of the eyelid from the eye
Definition
Entropion is a malpositioning of the eyelid, more precisely an inward reversal of it, so that the lashes drag on the cornea (so-called trichiasis). The disease occurs mainly at an advanced age (entropion senile), but can also occur in infants. The opposite, i.e. an outward rotation of the eyelid is called ectropion.
What are the symptoms of entropion?
The permanent grinding of the eyelashes on the conjunctiva leads to redness of the eye and a foreign body sensation in the patient. This in turn causes frequent squeezing of the eyelids, which can increase the entropion. The inflamed eye is chronically irritated and even normal influences such as light can cause the eye to squeeze.
Furthermore, an increased lacrimation (epiphora) is often observed. Complications are tears (erosions) of the cornea up to ulcers of the cornea (ulcera), an increased risk for infections, new vessel formation and scarring. Such complications can lead to a deterioration of visual acuity.
Entropion itself does not primarily lead to a deterioration in vision. The inward rotation of the eyelid during entropion causes the eyelashes to rub over the sensitive vitreous body. This phenomenon is also known as epiblepharon.
This leads to a foreign body sensation, also known as trichiasis. This leads to increased itching in the eye as well as increased lacrimation. Frequent itching and irritation can also lead to redness. By scratching the eye with the hands, pathogens can get into the eye and this can lead to inflammations such as conjunctivitis or visual disturbances.
How is entropion diagnosed?
The malposition of the eyelid often allows the diagnosis to be made very quickly. In addition, the ophthalmologist can use a slit lamp to determine how strongly the eyelashes rub on the cornea and whether the cornea has already been damaged.
Entropion in the baby
An entropion can also be congenital, but does not necessarily have to have a disease value. However, a congenital entropion is very rare. Often a baby’s eyelashes are still very soft so that the inward rotation of the eyelid does not cause any damage to the eye.
As a rule, newborns only feel a slight scratching in their eyes – similar to a foreign body in the eye, so that the eye itches more frequently. The entropion in the newborn often occurs together with the so-called distichiasis, a second row of eyelashes. In most cases, however, treatment is not necessary, as entropion in the baby often recedes within the first years of life. In case of complete regression, no further consequences are to be expected.
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