| Trichiasis | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Ophthalmology  |
| Diagnostic method | Slit lamp |
Trichiasis (/trɪkiˈeɪsɪs/trik-ee-AY-sis,/trɪˈkaɪəsɪs/tri-KEYE-ə-sis)[1] is a medical term for abnormally positionedeyelashes that grow back toward the eye, touching thecornea orconjunctiva. This can be caused byinfection,inflammation,autoimmune conditions, congenital defects, eyelidagenesis andtrauma such as burns or eyelid injury.
Standard treatment involves removal or destruction of the affected eyelashes withelectrology, specializedlaser, orsurgery. In many cases, removal of the affected eyelashes with forceps resolves the symptoms, although the problem often recurs in a few weeks when the eyelashes regrow. Severe cases may cause scarring of the cornea and lead to vision loss if untreated. Mild cases may not require treatment.
Repeated cases oftrachoma infection may cause trichiasis.[2]
Posterior misdirection of normal lashes most frequently affects the lower lid.
Trichiasis indogs is hair from the eyelid growing in the wrong direction and rubbing on the eye, causing irritation. It usually occurs at the lateral upper eyelid, especially in theEnglish Cocker Spaniel.[3] Trichiasis also refers to hair from a nasal fold rubbing on the eye. This type of trichiasis can be flattened by rubbingpetroleum jelly onto it, but surgery is sometimes necessary for permanent correction.[citation needed]