Distichiasis and dysplastic eyelashes in trachomatous trichiasis cases in Oman: a case series

The study was a prospective evaluation of the prevalence of distichiasis and/or dysplastic eyelashes among trachomatous trichiasis cases at the oculoplasty unit of a hospital in Oman over 3 months in 2000. An oculoplasty surgeon examined and photographed cases using a bio-microscope. Out of 80 cases, 58 (72.5%) had abnormal eyelashes in addition to trachomatous trichiasis. The rate of distichiasis and dysplastic lashes were 13.8% (95% CI 6.2%-21.3%) and 33.8% (95% CI 23.5%-44.1%) respectively; 25.0% (95% CI 15.5%-34.5%) had both. Dysplastic and distichiasis eyelashes were significantly more prevalent in trachomatous trichiasis cases aged < 50 years and those with entropion. Presence of distichiasis and/or dysplastic eyelashes in trachomatous trichiasis cases warrants further analytical studies to confirm the observation and establish any causal association.