Which statement about floppy eyelid syndrome is true?

Which statement about floppy eyelid syndrome is true?

• A. It occurs primarily in elderly women with diabetes
• B. It is not associated with sleep apnea
• C. It never causes conjunctival changes
• D. It can cause papillary conjunctivitis due to friction

Answer: (D)

Floppy eyelid syndrome is defined by markedly lax, easily everted upper eyelids that allow the lid to rub against the ocular surface. That constant mechanical friction irritates and inflames the palpebral conjunctiva, often leading to papillary conjunctivitis. The condition is classically seen in middle-aged, overweight individuals and is strongly linked to obstructive sleep apnea. So friction-induced papillary conjunctivitis is a recognized consequence. The idea that it occurs mainly in elderly women with diabetes, or that it isn’t associated with sleep apnea, or that it never causes conjunctival changes, does not fit the typical pattern.

Floppy eyelid syndrome is defined by markedly lax, easily everted upper eyelids that allow the lid to rub against the ocular surface. That constant mechanical friction irritates and inflames the palpebral conjunctiva, often leading to papillary conjunctivitis. The condition is classically seen in middle-aged, overweight individuals and is strongly linked to obstructive sleep apnea. So friction-induced papillary conjunctivitis is a recognized consequence. The idea that it occurs mainly in elderly women with diabetes, or that it isn’t associated with sleep apnea, or that it never causes conjunctival changes, does not fit the typical pattern.