Which term describes eyelashes that grow posteriorly from their site of origin?

Which term describes eyelashes that grow posteriorly from their site of origin?

• A. Distichiasis
• B. Trichiasis
• C. Madarosis
• D. Blepharitis

Answer: (B)

Lashes that grow posteriorly are curling inward toward the eye. This inward turning defines trichiasis. It causes irritation and potential corneal or conjunctival damage because the lashes rub against the eye. The inward growth is the key feature, often stemming from eyelid scarring, inflammation, trauma, or congenital issues. Distichiasis means there is an extra row of lashes along the lid margin, which may or may not grow inward; the defining idea is the presence of a second lash row rather than the direction of growth. Madarosis refers to loss of eyelashes (not their growth direction). Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid, not a misdirected lash growth pattern.

Lashes that grow posteriorly are curling inward toward the eye. This inward turning defines trichiasis. It causes irritation and potential corneal or conjunctival damage because the lashes rub against the eye. The inward growth is the key feature, often stemming from eyelid scarring, inflammation, trauma, or congenital issues.

Distichiasis means there is an extra row of lashes along the lid margin, which may or may not grow inward; the defining idea is the presence of a second lash row rather than the direction of growth. Madarosis refers to loss of eyelashes (not their growth direction). Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid, not a misdirected lash growth pattern.