The Swollen and Droopy Eyelid: Signs of Systemic Disease

Abstract

Swollen and droopy eyelids are obvious ocular findings, unlike many ocular conditions that require the use of special equipment to observe. Neither of these findings is a specific diagnosis but rather each is evidence of localized disease and often is a sign of underlying systemic disorder. Therefore, it is important for the clinician evaluating the child with a swollen or droopy lid to have a working knowledge of these diagnostic possibilities. In this article the author presents the various causes of the swollen and droopy eyelid, focus on the most relevant clinical characteristics, and emphasize systemic associations.