Entropion

What is entropion?

Entropion is the medical term for an inverted eyelid, such that the outer skin is in contact with the surface of the eye.

Why does it occur?

Entropion may be a primary condition (born with a predisposition to develop entropion, in the absence of concurrent eye diseases) or secondary to other eye conditions.

Can both eyes be affected?

Yes, most breeds are affected bilaterally, but not necessarily to the same extent.

Are any breeds predisposed?

Yes, entropion involving the lower lid affects: Chow Chow, Shar Pei, Bouvier des Flrandres, Rottweiler, German Pointer, Labrador, Golden Retriever. More complex types of entropion usually affect: Great Dane, St Bernard, Leonberger, entropion involving the medial part of the eyelids involve: Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Pug, Toy and Miniature Poodle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, English Bulldog.

What treatment options do I have?

Most dogs affected by entropion require surgery. The type of surgery will be tailored to your dog’s needs, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. Due to the dynamic nature of eyelid function, several procedures may be necessary to achieve adequate eyelid apposition.

Temporary sutures may be used in puppies, in order to ‘buy’ time, until they have reached adulthood and undergo permanent eyelid surgery, if required.

What happens if I do nothing?

If left untreated, entropion can cause severe and permanent damage to the surface of the eye, resulting in poor vision or in the worst case, loss of the eye.