CRYPTOPHTHALMOS

Crypthophthalmos (hidden eye) is characterized by the continuous passage of skin from the forehead to the cheek and absence of the palpebral fissure.

It is found in 84-93% of cases of Fraser syndrome.

1. Complete absence of the eyelids, eyelashes and palpebral fissure.
2. Skin passes continuously from the forehead onto the cheek over a rudimentary eye.
3. Most globes are microphthalmic and maldeveloped.
4. There are usually associated anomalies of the:
• Nose.
• Ear.
• Hairline.
• Throat.
• Teeth.
• Urogenital system.

REFERENCES

1. Gupta SP, Saxena RC. Cryptophthalmos. Br J Ophthalmol 1962;46:629.
2. Idle CH, Wollschlaeger PB. Multiple congenital abnormalities associated with cryptophthalmia. Arch Ophthalmol 1969;81:639.
3. Waring GO, Shields JA. Partial unilateral cryptophthalmos with syndactyly, brachycephaly and renal anomalies. Am J Ophthalmol 1975;79:437.
4. Ohtsuka H, Nakaoka H, Tamura O et.al. Bilateral cryptophthalmos with multiple associated congenital malformations. Ann Plast Surg 1985;15:448.