Related Experiment Videos
Keratoconus associated with floppy eyelid syndrome
E D Donnenfeld1, H D Perry, R P Gibralter
1Department of Ophthalmology, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY.
Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Floppy eyelid syndrome, a mechanical disorder, is linked to keratoconus, a corneal condition. Sleeping positions may worsen both conditions, but treatment can improve vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular Surface Disease
- Corneal Disorders
Background:
- Floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) is a recently described condition characterized by lax upper eyelids, often seen in overweight individuals.
- The etiology of FES is thought to be mechanical, related to eyelid eversion during sleep.
- Keratoconus, a progressive corneal thinning disorder, has an uncertain etiology, though mechanical factors are proposed.
Observation:
- This study reports five cases of patients with co-occurring floppy eyelid syndrome and keratoconus.
- Asymmetric presentations were common, with keratoconus severity correlating with FES severity.
- A history of sleeping predominantly on one side was noted in four patients, coinciding with asymmetric FES and keratoconus.
Findings:
- A strong association between floppy eyelid syndrome and keratoconus is observed.
- Mechanical factors, potentially related to sleeping habits, may play a role in the pathogenesis of both conditions.
- Successful contact lens rehabilitation for keratoconus was achieved post-FES treatment in two patients.
Implications:
- Understanding the mechanical link between FES and keratoconus may inform preventative strategies.
- Targeting FES management could potentially mitigate keratoconus progression.
- Further research into the mechanical etiology of both conditions is warranted.