Definition
An epicanthus is a slight fold in the skin, in the shape of a half-moon, situated at the inner angle of the eye, on the tear duct. It stretches from the upper eyelid to the edge of the nose. An epicanthus is notably the cause of slanted eyes in persons of Asian origin or those suffering from
pathologies such as
Down syndrome or
fetal alcohol syndrome. In certain cases it is sufficiently developed so as to disturb the vision, and can thus be operated upon through ophthalmic surgery.
Original article published by
Jeff. Translated by
Jeff.
Latest update on November 19, 2013 at 10:54 AM by Jeff.