symblepharon
Pronunciation: sim-blef-ah-ron
Abnormal adhesion between the eyelid and eyeball, often following injury or inflammation.
Full Definition
Symblepharon is an abnormal adhesion or fusion between the palpebral conjunctiva (lining the eyelid) and the bulbar conjunctiva (covering the eyeball). This condition typically results from severe conjunctival inflammation, chemical burns, trauma, or certain autoimmune diseases such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or ocular cicatricial pemphigoid. Symblepharon can restrict eye movement, cause diplopia, and interfere with eyelid function. Treatment may involve surgical lysis of adhesions, often combined with conjunctival reconstruction using grafts or amniotic membrane. Prevention of reformation requires careful postoperative management and sometimes the use of conformers or contact lenses.
Usage
Usage note: Describe extent and location when documenting. Note functional impact on eye movement.
In Context
- "Extensive symblepharon formation occurred following chemical injury to the conjunctiva." — Trauma assessment
- "Surgical lysis of symblepharon with amniotic membrane grafting was performed to restore fornix depth." — Reconstructive surgery note