glossary

ectropion

Definition ectropion

ectropion

ectropion n. turning out of the eyelid, away from the eyeball. The commonest type is senile ectropion, in which the lower eyelid droops, because of loss of the elasticity of its tissues in old age. If the muscle that closes the eye (orbicularis oculi) is paralysed the lower lid also droops. Ectropion may also occur if the lining membrane (conjunctiva) of the lid is very thickened or if scarring causes contraction of the skin.