ECTROPION

Ectropion is an eversion of the eyelid margin.  The ocular sequelae of ectropion include blurred vision, tearing, ocular discomfort and irritation, conjunctival redness, and keratopathy from corneal exposure.

Ectropion is classified based on the mechanism causing the outward rotation of the eyelid margin: involutional, cicatricial, paralytic, mechanical.  Involutional ectropion is the most common and is caused by horizontal eyelid laxity secondary to aging.  Cicatricial ectropion results from a vertical shortening of anterior lamella, which consist of skin, and orbicularis, and may be caused by sundamage, previous lower blepharoplasty, other previous surgery, or trauma.  Paralytic ectropion occurs from a CN7 palsy (facial nerve paresis, Bell’s palsy) which results in orbicularis weakness.  Mechanical ectropion occurs from a mass of the eyelid such as a tumor which pulls the lid outward.

Ectropion is corrected surgically.  The damaged, keratinized conjunctival surface will revert back to protective mucous membrane after the eyelid is placed back into its proper position.

Slideshow:

Slide 3 shows the anterior lamella of eyelid consisting of skin and orbicularis oculi