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Ectropion Causes and Risks:
Ectropion is usually caused by the aging process and the weakening of the eyelid muscles causing the lid to turn out. It can also be caused by contraction of scar tissue from burns or from facial palsy , or as a congenital defect. Ectropion interferes with normal tearing and may result in chronic conjunctivitis . Constant wiping of the eye may lead to further drooping of the eyelid . Ectropion can be seen in children with Down's syndrome due to a congenital malformation of the lateral canthal ligament.
Prevention:
Most cases are not preventable. Use of lubricating drops may prevent complications.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
An eye examination with forcible blinking confirms the disorder. No tests are usually necessary.
Treatment:
Artificial tears, a lubricant, may provide relief from dryness and keep the cornea lubricated. Surgery to tighten the muscles that hold the eyelids in place is effective and can usually be performed as outpatient surgery with local anesthetic.
Prognosis:
The outcome is expected to be good with treatment.
Complications:
Corneal dryness and irritation may predispose the patient to eye infections or corneal abrasions or ulcers .
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms develop (to check for corneal abrasions or ulcers ).
This is an illustration of a cross-section and frontal view of the eye.
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