Symblepharon

A condition involving adhesion of the eyelid to the eyeball

Symblepharon affecting the lower eyelid

Symblepharon is a medical condition characterized by the adhesion of the palpebral conjunctiva of the eyelid to the bulbar conjunctiva of the eyeball. This condition can lead to restricted eye movement and discomfort, and it may result from various causes, including trauma, inflammation, or surgical complications.

Causes

Symblepharon can arise from several etiological factors:

• Trauma: Physical injury to the eye or eyelid can lead to scar formation and subsequent adhesion.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammatory conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or ocular cicatricial pemphigoid can cause symblepharon.
• Surgery: Post-surgical complications, particularly after procedures involving the conjunctiva, may result in adhesions.
• Chemical burns: Exposure to caustic substances can damage the conjunctiva, leading to symblepharon.

Symptoms

Patients with symblepharon may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Restricted eye movement
• Discomfort or pain in the affected eye
• Redness and irritation
• Visual disturbances if the adhesion affects the cornea

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of symblepharon is primarily clinical, based on the observation of adhesions between the eyelid and the eyeball. An ophthalmologist may use a slit lamp examination to assess the extent and severity of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment options for symblepharon depend on the severity and underlying cause:

• Surgical intervention: In severe cases, surgical separation of the adhesions may be necessary. This can involve techniques such as amniotic membrane transplantation or mucous membrane grafting.
• Lubrication: Artificial tears or lubricating ointments can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further adhesions.
• Management of underlying conditions: Treating the primary cause, such as controlling inflammation in autoimmune diseases, is crucial.

Prognosis

The prognosis for symblepharon varies depending on the cause and the effectiveness of treatment. Early intervention and management of underlying conditions can improve outcomes and prevent recurrence.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Prompt treatment of eye injuries and infections
• Avoidance of exposure to chemical irritants
• Careful surgical techniques to minimize trauma to the conjunctiva

Related pages

• Conjunctiva
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid
• Amniotic membrane transplantation