What is epiblepharon?

Epiblepharon is a condition characterized by the eyelid skin overriding the eyelid margin, which can lead to the lashes rubbing against the cornea. This occurs due to a misalignment of the eyelid and can often be found in infants. The abnormal positioning of the skin can cause irritation, discomfort, and in some cases, visual impairment if not addressed.

In contrast to other conditions, such as the outward turning of the eyelid margin (also known as ectropion), or cicatricial entropion, which is caused by scarring leading to an inward turning of the eyelid, epiblepharon specifically involves the skin and is more common in children and can resolve as they grow. Furthermore, it is distinct from congenital infections, which relate to diseases present at birth without reference to the alignment of the eyelids. Understanding epiblepharon is crucial for early diagnosis and management in pediatric patients to prevent complications.