DISTICHIASIS

Distichiae are abnormal cilia arising from the eyelid margin at/or close to the level of the meibomian gland openings. In most cases, distichiae do not result in significant ocular pathology. Distichiae may affect one or both eyelids. Distichiae occur commonly in dogs and less commonly in cats. Where indicated, the appropriate treatment of distichiae represents removal and the permanent destruction of their associated follicle. Permanent follicular destruction may be achieved using surgical excision, cryo-epilationin a double freeze-thaw cycle and/or electro-epilation. An Elizabethan collar should be placed in order to prevent self-trauma, and corneal health should be frequently monitored until eyelid healing is complete.