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Palpebral slant - eye
Definition
The palpebral slant is the direction of the slant of a line drawn from the outer corner of the eye to the inner corner.
Alternative Names
Mongolian slant
Considerations
The palpebra are the upper and lower eyelids, which make up the shape of the eye. A line drawn from the inner corner to the outer corner determines the slant of the eye, or palpebral slant. Slanting and a fold of skin (epicanthal fold) are normal in people of Asian descent.
Abnormal slanting of the eye may occur with some genetic disorders and syndromes. The most common of these syndromes is Down syndrome. Persons with Down syndrome often also have an epicanthal fold in the inner corner of the eye.
Causes
Palpebral slant may not be part of any other defect. However, in some cases, it may be due to:
- Down syndrome
- Fetal alcohol syndrome
- Certain genetic disorders
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your health care provider if:
- Your infant has abnormal features of the face
- You are worried about your infant's ability to move his or her eyes
- You notice any abnormal color, swelling, or discharge from the eyes
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the child's medical history and symptoms.
An infant with an abnormal palpebral slant will usually have other symptoms of another health condition. That condition will be diangosed based on a family history, medical history, and a physical exam.
Tests to confirm a disorder may include:
- Chromosome studies
- Enzyme assays
- Metabolic studies
- X-rays
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
