Abstract: Entropion is a common eyelid malposition characterized by inward turning of the eyelid margin, leading to ocular surface irritation and potential corneal damage. This article provides a comprehensive review of entropion, covering its etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and recent innovations. By delving into the complexities of entropion management, ophthalmologists can enhance their clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.

Introduction: Entropion is a distressing condition in which the eyelid margin turns inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the ocular surface. Understanding the underlying causes, clinical presentation, and treatment strategies for entropion is essential for effective management and prevention of ocular complications.

Etiology: Entropion can result from various factors, including age-related tissue laxity, scarring from previous surgery or trauma, congenital abnormalities, and underlying inflammatory conditions such as trachoma. Identifying the underlying etiology is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Clinical Features: Patients with entropion may experience symptoms such as ocular irritation, tearing, redness, and foreign body sensation. Clinical examination typically reveals inward rotation of the eyelid margin, corneal epithelial defects, conjunctival injection, and keratinization of the ocular surface.

Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis of entropion is primarily clinical, based on history and physical examination findings. Additional tests such as corneal staining with fluorescein, tear film assessment, and eyelid position evaluation may be performed to assess ocular surface damage and severity of entropion.

Treatment Options: Management of entropion aims to correct eyelid malposition, alleviate ocular symptoms, and prevent corneal complications. Treatment modalities may include conservative measures such as lubricating eye drops, eyelid taping, and botulinum toxin injection, as well as surgical correction techniques such as eyelid repositioning procedures and eyelid margin repair.

Recent Innovations: Recent advancements in entropion management focus on minimally invasive techniques and tissue-sparing approaches. Innovations such as thermal eyelid tightening devices, tissue adhesive application, and novel surgical implants offer potential benefits in terms of reduced invasiveness and improved outcomes.

Conclusion: Entropion is a common eyelid disorder with diverse etiologies and clinical presentations. By staying informed about the latest research and innovations in entropion management, ophthalmologists can tailor treatment strategies to individual patient needs, ultimately improving ocular comfort and preserving visual function.

For further reading and reference:

• American Academy of Ophthalmology – Entropion: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/entropion
• British Journal of Ophthalmology – Entropion Repair: https://bjo.bmj.com/content/99/4/482
• American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) – Eyelid Malposition: https://www.asoprs.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3318