Retrospective review of eyelash number in patients who have undergone full-thickness eyelid resection

Upper Eyelid Reconstruction

Reconstruction of the upper eyelid is complicated because the eyelid must retain mobility, flexibility, function, and a suitable mucosal surface over the delicate cornea. Defects of the upper eyelid may be due to congenital defects or traumatic injury or follow oncologic resection. This article focuses on reconstruction due to loss of tissue. Multiple surgeries may be needed to reach the desired results, addressing loss of tissue and then loss of function. Each defect is unique and the laxity and availability of surrounding tissue vary. Knowing the most common techniques for repair assists surgeons in the multifaceted planning that takes place.

Characterization of prostaglandin F2α receptors in human eyelids

PURPOSE

Elongation, thickening, and crowding of eyelashes are commonly seen after topical use of prostaglandin analog eyedrops for glaucoma treatment. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the presence and characterize the location of prostaglandin analog F2α receptors (PGF2α) in human hair follicles.

METHODS

In this observational clinical laboratory study, excised eyelid specimens following eyelid surgery were studied. Resected portions of eyelids were submitted for histopathologic evaluation. For immunohistochemistry evaluation, a polyclonal antibody directed against PGF2α was purchased from Cayman Chemical. The staining procedure was carried out on an automatic stainer.

RESULTS

Out of 26 patients recruited, final analysis was conducted on 17 eyes of 15 patients. There were 10 men and 5 women (mean age 77 ± 14 years). Staining was detected only in hair follicles in the anagen stage (37 slices). No variation in pattern, distribution, or intensity of immunostaining was noted among sections of different individuals. Only the bulb and stem of the hair follicle stained positive. In the bulb, the strongest staining occurred in the matricular cells and in the inner sheath layer. In the stem, the strongest staining occurred in the Huxley layer of the inner sheath.

CONCLUSIONS

This immunohistologic study found that PGF2α receptors were located predominantly in the inner root sheath of the bulb and stem of eyelashes and expressed only in eyelashes in the anagen phase.