Ectropion is the turning out of the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) so that the inner surface is exposed.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Ectropion is usually caused by the aging process and the weakening of the connective tissue of the eyelid, which causes the lid to turn out. It can also be caused by contraction of scar tissue from burns or from facial palsy and may occur as a congenital defect (for example, in children with Down syndrome).
Ectropion interferes with normal distribution of tears on the surface of the eye and may result in dry, painful eyes, chronic conjunctivitis, and keratitis.
A physical examination of the eyes and eyelids confirms the diagnosis. Special tests are usually not necessary.
Review Date: 10/20/2006
Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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