Eyelid lesions in dogs
Eyelids
The eyelids represent significant protection of all eye structures. Any anomaly of the eyelids (laceration, tumors, anatomical defects) can lead to loss of their function, and consequently corneal ulcers, scars, and pigmented spots.
What is Entropion?
Entropion is the twisting of the eyelids towards the surface of the eye. The upper, lower eyelids or both may be affected. This condition leads to the appearance of a painful eye, redness of the eyes, excessive tearing, and ulcers and scars can appear on the cornea. In very young dogs, temporary suturing can be performed to move the edge of the eyelids away from the corneal tissue. In some breeds of dogs (Shar Pei, Chow Chow) it is necessary to perform combined surgeries in order to correct the entropion.
Entropion in a young, Cane Corso dog (arrow). The dog is showing signs of eye irritation (tearing and excessive blinking)
The same dog two weeks after the surgery. The problem has been eliminated and there is no more eye irritation (no tearing). The sutures are barely noticeable (arrows).
What is ectropion?
Ectropion is an outward rolling of the eyelids. This condition can lead to chronic eye irritation and excessive dryness of the eye. Applying artificial tears is usually enough to reduce the discomfort; however, in some cases, surgical correction may be needed.
Ectropion can often be seen as a problem in large breeds of dogs and can lead to chronic eye inflammation and corneal clouding.
Tumors (neoplasias) of the eyelids
Tumors on the eyelids can lead to eye irritation, ulcers, and scar formation on the cornea. Most eyelid tumors in dogs are benign and it is enough to remove them surgically. Sometimes malignant neoplasms can develop on the eyelids, which require aggressive medical and surgical therapy.
Large tumors of the eyelids (arrow) can seriously damage the cornea. Treatment strategies in these cases represent a major challenge for both, the veterinarian and the dog owner.