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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > E > Ectropion

Ectropion   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Definition:

The turning out of the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) so that the inner surface is exposed.

Causes and Risks

Ectropion is usually caused by the aging process and the weakening of the eyelid connective tissue causing the lid to turn out. It can also be caused by contraction of scar tissue from burns, or from facial palsy, and rarely may occur as a congenital defect. Paralysis of the facial nerve (facial palsy) is usually not associated with other diseases, but may follow injury or stroke.

Ectropion interferes with normal distribution of tears on the surface of the eye and may result in chronic conjunctivitis and keratitis. Ectropion can be seen in children with Down's syndrome due to a congenital malformation of the lids.

Ency. home > Disease > E > Ectropion

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