Thao's right eye frequently became red, watery, and irritated with changes in weather. Doctors had previously diagnosed recurrent conjunctivitis, noting a slight inward curl of her eyelid that was not yet severely irritating. Recently, her eyelashes grew stiffer, and the eyelid margin curled further inward, directly rubbing against the cornea and causing significant discomfort.
Dr. Nguyen Duc Huy, a first-degree specialist at the High-Tech Eye Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, explained that Thao suffered from congenital entropion. This condition, present from birth, results from an imbalanced development of the eyelid's skin, muscle, and cartilage.
Entropion can affect individuals of any age, though children are particularly susceptible to congenital entropion because their developing orbicularis oculi muscle and tarsal cartilage are weaker, making the eyelid more prone to turning inward. While mild cases in children sometimes resolve naturally with age, Thao's structural abnormality meant her eyelid continued to curl inward over time. Although her vision remained largely unaffected (right eye 8/10, left eye 10/10), the condition impeded her daily activities and posed an aesthetic concern.
During an examination with a slit lamp, doctors observed numerous shallow abrasions on Thao's cornea, indicating epithelial damage and a risk of infection and scarring.
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Dr. Huy examines Thao's eye. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital. |
Doctors recommended reconstructive surgery for her lower right eyelid to reposition the eyelid margin to its correct anatomical alignment. Over approximately 30 minutes, the surgeon performed aesthetic sutures to evert the eyelid, ensuring the eyelashes regained their natural curvature and growth direction.
Post-surgery, Thao received instructions to use anti-inflammatory eye drops, wear protective glasses, and avoid strenuous activities. One day later, she could open her eye easily, free from the previous discomfort. A follow-up examination after 7 days confirmed corneal recovery, with the abrasions gradually diminishing. She was then able to resume outdoor activities, improving her studies and daily life.
Entropion is a common condition often mistaken for conjunctivitis or the presence of foreign particles like sand or dust in the eye. Parents should seek prompt medical attention from an ophthalmology specialist if their children exhibit symptoms such as persistent red eyes, prolonged tearing, frequent squinting, a foreign body sensation, or blurred vision.
Nhat Minh
* The patient's name has been changed.
