2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
7 Oculofacial Plastic and Orbital Surgery
Part II: Periocular Soft Tissues
Chapter 10: Classification of Eyelid Disorders
Congenital Anomalies
Cryptophthalmos
Cryptophthalmos is a rare condition that presents with partial (Fig 10-13A) or complete (Fig 10-13B) absence of the eyebrow, palpebral fissure, eyelashes, and conjunctiva. The partially developed adnexa are fused to the anterior segment of the globe. Cryptophthalmos may be unilateral or bilateral. Histologically, the orbicularis oculi, levator muscle, tarsus, conjunctiva, and meibomian glands are attenuated or absent; thus, attempts at reconstruction are difficult. Severe ocular defects are present in the underlying eye, which can be microphthalmic or associated with an orbital cyst.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 10 - Glaucoma. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.