Disease Description: An abnormal rolling out of the eyelids.

Inherit Mode: It is likely that ectropion is influenced by several genes (polygenic inheritance) that affect the skin and other structures that make up the eyelids, and that affect the way the skin covers the face and head.

Disease Symptom: Because of increased exposure of the eye, dogs with ectropion are prone to develop allergic or bacterial conjunctivitis - inflammation of the thin membrane which covers the periphery of the surface of the eye and lines the eyelids. Affected dogs may develop<a href="keratoconjunctivitis%20sicca%20.html">keratoconjunctivitis sicca</a>because of reduced efficiency at wetting and cleaning the cornea. Dogs who have had surgical correction for a defect such as ectropion are prohibited from exhibition in the show ring.

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: In addition to the sagging of the eyelids, dogs with ectropion commonly have a mucopurulent discharge in the eye, reddening of the exposed conjunctiva, and decreased tear production. To check the latter, your veterinarian will do a Schirmer tear test.

Treat Method: With mild entropion, no treatment may be necessary. If secondary problems such as conjunctivitis develop, these are treated as required. More severe ectropion can lead to chronic problems associated with eye irritation. In these cases, surgery is performed to remove a small wedge of tissue from the margin of the eyelid.

Breeder Advice: Ectropion is one of the eye conditions that is a result of selection by breeders and a demand by the public for such features as excessively prominent eyes and heavy facial folds. A responsible breeding programme will choose animals for breeding with a more normal head conformation, so as to select away from these exaggerated facial features and the problems associated with them.

Disease Description Source: Link