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Floppy eyelid syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea
1Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) is linked to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Screening for OSA in FES patients and vice versa can prevent vision-threatening complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) is a chronic conjunctivitis often affecting middle-aged obese men, characterized by a lax, easily everted upper eyelid.
- A potential association between FES and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been previously suggested.
Observation:
- This study reviews 17 new cases and 79 prior reports of FES, detailing its varied presentations including ptosis, trichiasis, ectropion, and corneal complications.
- Investigations revealed that all eight FES patients referred for sleep studies had OSA.
- Among 20 patients with known OSA, one had FES and two showed early signs of the syndrome.
Findings:
- The study confirms a high prevalence of OSA in patients diagnosed with FES.
- Ocular manifestations in FES patients can be diverse, extending beyond conjunctivitis to include lid abnormalities and corneal issues.
- Early detection of FES in OSA patients and vice versa is crucial.
Implications:
- Patients diagnosed with FES should be evaluated for OSA due to its significant associated morbidity.
- Screening OSA patients for FES may lead to earlier diagnosis and management, preventing potentially severe corneal complications and vision loss.