Entropion in lambs

NADIS disease bulletins are written specifically for farmers, to increase awareness of prevalent conditions and promote disease prevention and control, in order to benefit animal health and welfare. Farmers are advised to discuss their individual farm circumstances with their veterinary surgeon.

Entropion in lambs

There have been several reports of entropion in newborn lambs. Entropion is a common congenital disorder, which is characterised by turning in of one or both lower eyelids. The condition is seen in most breeds of British sheep and is probably inherited, but the nature of the inheritance is unknown.

In-turned hairs of the lower eyelid rub on the cornea and cause severe irritation. The condition is painful and affected eyes appear half-closed and watery. Some cases spontaneously recover, but in most lambs, unless treated, the cornea becomes cloudy and ulcerated, leading to permanent blindness.

Treatment

Mildly affected cases often respond to manual eversion of the lower eyelid. Lambs should be carefully monitored afterwards and the procedure may need to be repeated.

More severely affected eyes are usually treated by injection of about 1 ml of penicillin under the eyelid or insertion of metal (Michel) clips below the eyelid, to draw the eyelid outwards.

Severe or persistent cases sometimes require veterinary surgical removal of a strip of skin from under the eyelid. Your vet can provide advice about the management of entropion in your flock.

Neil Sargison BA VetMB DSHP FRCVS