10 Reasons Your Eyelid is Turning Inward: Uncovering the Causes of Entropion

7. Autoimmune Betrayal: Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid

In a cruel twist of biology, sometimes the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid (OCP) is a rare, chronic autoimmune disease that targets mucous membranes, including the conjunctiva lining your eyelids and eye. This sustained internal assault causes progressive inflammation and deep scarring within the eyelid. As this internal scar tissue contracts over months or years, it inexorably drags the eyelid margin inwards. This type of entropion is particularly challenging as it stems from an ongoing systemic disease requiring specialized medical care to manage both the entropion and the underlying autoimmune attack.

8. The Aftermath of Severe Eye Allergies or Chronic Irritants

While temporary inflammation can cause issues, imagine years of intense, chronic allergic reactions or constant exposure to environmental irritants. This prolonged state of ocular distress can lead to more than just itching. Patients often vigorously rub their eyes for relief over extended periods. This chronic mechanical trauma, combined with persistent inflammation, can gradually weaken the eyelid's supporting structures (like the tarsal plate and canthal tendons) and even induce subtle scarring. Over time, this cumulative damage can destabilize the eyelid margin, causing it to lose its normal position and eventually roll inwards, a slow burn leading to entropion.