Lagophthalmos

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Lagophthalmos
Synonyms	Lagophthalmus
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Inability to fully close the eyelids
Complications	Exposure keratopathy, dry eye syndrome
Onset	Can be congenital or acquired
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Facial nerve palsy, trauma, surgery, thyroid eye disease
Risks	Corneal ulceration, infection
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, slit lamp examination
Differential diagnosis	Ectropion, entropion, ptosis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Artificial tears, tarsorrhaphy, gold weight implant
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on underlying cause and treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Lagophthalmos is a medical condition characterized by the inability to close the eyelids completely. This condition can be caused by various factors, including facial paralysis, trauma, or surgery. It can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulceration, corneal abrasion, and eye infection.

Causes

Lagophthalmos can be caused by several factors. These include:

• Facial paralysis: This is a condition where there is loss of facial movement due to nerve damage. It can cause the inability to close the eyes completely.
• Trauma: Injuries to the face or eyes can lead to lagophthalmos.
• Surgery: Certain surgical procedures, especially those involving the face or eyes, can result in lagophthalmos.

Symptoms

The symptoms of lagophthalmos can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common symptoms include:

• Inability to close the eyes completely
• Dry eyes
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light

Diagnosis

Lagophthalmos is typically diagnosed through a physical examination of the eyes and eyelids. The doctor may also ask about any history of facial paralysis, trauma, or surgery. In some cases, further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

Treatment

The treatment for lagophthalmos depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:

• Artificial tears: These can help to keep the eyes moist and prevent dryness.
• Eye patch: This can protect the eye and help to keep it moist.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct the problem.

See also

• Blepharoplasty
• Ptosis (eyelid)
• Ectropion
• Entropion