Pet Entropion/Ectropion Spring, TX
This is an eyelid that is everted, gaping, or turned outward and usually always affects the lower lids.
What is entropion and ectropion?
Entropion is a condition in which a portion of the eyelid is rolled inward toward the eye. This causes facial hairs to rub directly on the cornea. Ectropion occurs when the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner conjunctiva of the eyelid.
What are the clinical signs of entropion and ectropion?
Entropion is more painful than ectropion due to the friction caused by hairs contacting the sensitive cornea. This friction causes abrasions (ulcers) and scar tissue on the cornea that can affect vision and, in complicated cases, can lead to loss of the eye. Squinting, tearing, ocular discharge, and conjunctivitis are observed clinically.
At North Houston Veterinary Ophthalmology (NHVO), ectropion may be less painful initially, but if left uncorrected can result in the same scar tissue and/or ulcerative conditions due to incomplete protection of the cornea, also known as “exposure keratitis.”
What causes entropion and ectropion?
These eyelid abnormalities may be developmental (incongruent eyelid growth due to facial conformation, genetic predisposition) or can occur secondary (i.e., ocular pain causing intense squinting, change in globe size, or scar tissue from previous trauma).
What is the treatment for entropion and ectropion?
Surgically correcting the affected eyelid to its normal position is necessary to prevent the complications previously discussed. There are numerous surgical options available, and the appropriate surgery for your pet is determined by patient age and breed, surgeon preference, and severity of condition.