Entropion

Alternative names:

inward turning of the eyelid

Definition:

The turning in of the edges of the eyelid so that the lashes rub against the eye surface.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Entropion can be a congenital condition. In babies, it rarely causes problems, because the lashes are very soft and will not damage the cornea. In the elderly, the condition is caused by a weakness of the muscles surrounding the lower part of the eye causing the lid to turn inward. It may also be caused by scarring on the inner surface of the lid from trachoma infection. Risk factors are aging, trauma or chemical burn, or disease such as trachoma.