Entropion

Entropion is a condition in which part or all of the eyelid rolls inward toward the eye surface. The eyelashes may then brush against the cornea (the clear covering of the eye), causing scratches, ulcers, and pain. The condition is often inherited in flat-faced dogs or in dogs with many facial folds.

Entropion is the rolling inward of part of the eyelid or the entire eyelid. It can occur on the upper and/or lower eyelid, in one eye only, or in both eyes. When the eyelid rolls inward, the eyelashes can rub against the cornea (the clear covering of the eye) causing painful scratches. Left untreated, these scratches can lead to corneal ulcers and blindness.

Entropion is more common in dogs than in cats. Flat-faced dogs (eg English bulldogs, Pekinese, and Pugs) and cats (eg Persians and Himalayans) may be more likely to experience entropion. Breeds that have numerous skin folds on the face (eg bloodhounds, Shar-peis, and Chow chows) may also be more likely to have this condition.

Entropion is generally inherited, but can also occur as a result of eye irritation, which can cause the eyelids to spasm.

Pets with entropion may show the following signs:

• Squinting or blinking
• Excessive tear production
• Eye discharge
• Pawing at eye
• Pigmentation (discolouration) on the eye surface

If you see these signs in your pet, seek veterinary help immediately. Corneal scratches can be very painful, and should be treated as soon as possible.

Your veterinarian will examine your pet’s eyes to determine if entropion is being caused by a problem with the eyelid or by eye irritation. If eye irritation is the cause, the eyelid will most likely return to normal once the irritation is resolved.

While examining the eyelid, your veterinarian will also examine the eye surface to check if damage has been caused by eyelash rubbing. Your veterinarian may put a few drops of fluorescein dye into your pet’s eye. This is painless and can locate a scratch or other injury on the surface of the cornea by staining it apple green.

Entropion is generally treated with surgery. A small piece of skin is removed to make the eyelid roll outward instead of inward and keep the eyelashes away from the eye surface. In puppies, surgery should not be performed until ~6 months of age when the face conformation (shape) has matured. Temporary stitches may be put in place until then to prevent the eyelashes from rubbing against the eye.

If the eyelashes have rubbed against the eye causing a injury to the cornea, this must also be treated. Minor corneal injuries are usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment and pain medications. More severe problems may require surgical intervention.