Entropion

Overview

Entropion is an inward rolling of the eyelid edges with the eyelashes causing trauma to the surface of the eye (cornea). This is a common eye problem and can be present soon after birth or acquired later in life. It most commonly affects the lower eyelids.

Entropion that is considered to be inherited usually develops within a few months of birth. It occurs in a wide variety of purebred dogs, including the chow chow, English bulldog, Irish setter, Labrador retriever, St. Bernard, Chinese shar-pei, golden retriever, Great Dane, and Chesapeake Bay retriever.

Entropion may also develop later in life secondary to other changes around the eye. It can arise from spasm and pain associated with corneal and other eye diseases. It may occur when the eye itself moves backwards into the orbit (enophthalmos), or when the eye becomes shrunken following a severe injury or infection. Occasionally entropion develops following loss of normal neurologic function of the eyelids.

Diagnosis and Treatment Notes:

• Entropion is generally diagnosed with a thorough history and physical examination, including a thorough eye exam. The corneas are often stained to determine if corneal ulcers are present.

• Treatment depends on the severity of the disease, your individual pet, and your veterinarian. Pets with entropion require surgery. The extent of the surgery will vary depending on the severity of the entropion, underlying eye disease and the age and breed of the pet. Discuss treatment details when your pet is diagnosed with this condition.   

What to Watch for*:

• Tearing
• Squinting
• Rubbing eye
• Mucoid or thick discharge from the eyes
• Rolling of the eyelid and wetness on the hairs adjacent to the eyelids

*Please notify us if you notice any of the above signs or if you have any questions!