Trichiasis

Trichiasis
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Ophthalmology
Symptoms	Eye irritation, redness, tearing, sensitivity to light
Complications	Corneal abrasion, corneal ulcer, infection
Onset
Duration
Types
Causes	Chronic blepharitis, Trachoma, Entropion, Eyelid trauma
Risks
Diagnosis	Slit-lamp examination, Eyelid examination
Differential diagnosis	Distichiasis, Entropion, Blepharitis
Prevention
Treatment	Epilation, Electrolysis, Cryotherapy, Surgery
Medication	Lubricating eye drops, Antibiotic ointment
Prognosis
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

Trichiasis is a medical condition where the eyelashes grow inwards towards the eye, causing discomfort and potentially damaging the eye. This condition can affect one or both eyes, and can occur at any age. Trichiasis can be caused by a variety of factors, including eye infections, inflammation, trauma, or certain systemic diseases.

Causes

Trichiasis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Eye infections: Certain eye infections can cause inflammation and scarring of the eyelid, leading to trichiasis.
• Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions such as blepharitis can cause the eyelashes to grow inwards.
• Trauma: Injury to the eye or eyelid can cause scarring and abnormal growth of the eyelashes.
• Systemic diseases: Certain systemic diseases, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, can cause trichiasis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of trichiasis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include:

• Eye irritation or discomfort
• Redness of the eye
• Tearing or watering of the eye
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light

Treatment

Treatment for trichiasis typically involves removing the in-growing eyelashes, or redirecting their growth away from the eye. This can be done through a variety of methods, including:

• Epilation: This is a temporary solution where the in-growing eyelashes are plucked out.
• Electrolysis: This involves using an electric current to destroy the hair follicle, preventing the eyelash from growing back.
• Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the hair follicle to prevent the eyelash from growing back.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the hair follicle or to redirect the growth of the eyelashes.

See also

• Blepharitis
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Eye disorders