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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration showing entropion 
Entropion

Entropion (en-TROH-pe-on) is a condition in which your eyelid turns inward so that your eyelashes and skin rub against the eye surface, causing irritation and discomfort. When you have entropion, your eyelid may be turned in all the time, or it may only turn inward when you blink forcibly or squeeze your eyelids shut tightly. Entropion occurs most often in older adults, and it typically affects only your lower eyelid.

Artificial tears and lubricating ointments can help relieve symptoms of entropion, but you'll likely need surgery to correct it. Left untreated, entropion can cause damage to the clear part of your eye (cornea), which can lead to vision loss.

References
  1. Pereira MG, et al. Eyelid entropion. Seminars in Ophthalmology. 2010;25:52.
  2. Entropion — eyelids that turn in. American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. http://www.asoprs.org/files/public/InfoEntropion.pdf. Accessed Aug. 10, 2010.
  3. Burton MJ. Trachoma: An overview. British Medical Bulletin. 2007;84:99.
  4. Barnes JA, et al. Simple effective surgery for involutional entropion suitable for the general ophthalmologist. Ophthalmology. 2006;113:92.
  5. Gigantelli JW. Entropion. In: Yanoff M, et al. Ophthalmology. 2nd ed. Maryland Heights, Mo.: Mosby Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/215118653-2/1038339548/1869/576.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-323-04332-8..00235-3_5190. Accessed Aug. 12, 2010.
  6. Robertson DM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Aug. 16, 2010.
DS01094 Sept. 30, 2010

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