Trichiasis

Understanding trichiasis

Trichiasis can cause the inward-turning eyelashes to rub against the cornea (the clear, dome-like window covering the coloured iris and the pupil), the conjunctiva (the thin, clear membrane covering the sclera, which is the white part of the eye) and the inner surface of the eyelids, irritating the eye.

Symptoms of Trichiasis

Trichiasis can be caused by an eye infection, inflammation (swelling) or the eyelid, autoimmune conditions and trauma. This condition can also be caused by rubbing of the eyes which can mechanically turn the lashes. Although anyone can develop trichiasis, it is more common in adults.

Causes of Trichiasis

Trichiasis can be caused by an eye infection, inflammation (swelling) or the eyelid, autoimmune conditions and trauma. This condition can also be caused by rubbing of the eyes which can mechanically turn the lashes. Although anyone can develop trichiasis, it is more common in adults.

Certain conditions that increase your risk of developing trichiasis include:

• Trauma to the eye, such as burns.
• Trachoma, a severe eye infection that is commonly found in developing nations.
• Chronic blepharitis, a common and ongoing condition where the eyelids become inflamed (swollen), with oily particles and bacteria along the eyelid margin near the base of the eyelashes. Blepharitis causes infection and inflammation of the eyelids and lash follicules which can cause the eyelashes to turn inwards.
• Herpes zoster eye disease.
• Certain rare disorders of the skin and mucous membranes, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and cicatricial pemphigoid.
• Epiblepharon, is similar but an inborn condition that occurs when there is a fold of skin on the lower eyelid that causes the lashes to assume a vertical position. Epiblepharon is most commonly found in children of Asian ancestry and almost always resolves without causing problems.

Treatment of Trichiasis with Electrolysis

To clear up wrong-way eyelashes for good, your ophthalmologist may suggest electrolysis — a safe and effective process that uses electricity to permanently remove the hair. To prevent regrowth of the lashes and treat the root cause of irritation, each hair follicle can be destroyed with a high-frequency electric current.

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, where a fine probe is inserted approximately 2mm into the follicle adjacent to the lash, and it coagulates the root of the hair shaft. The lash can then be removed harmlessly and permanently with forceps.

Following electrolysis, an antibiotic drop or ointment is prescribed to aid the healing process. Most often this is a permanent solution but sometimes needs repeating.