What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• ALO (Apraxia of Lid Opening)
• Apraxia of Lid Opening (ALO)

What is Apraxia of Eyelid Opening? (Definition/Background Information)

• Apraxia of Eyelid Opening is a non-motor condition involving the eye muscles, in which the affected individual is unable to open or raise the eyelids from a shut position
• The condition is commonly associated with blepharospasm (eye twitching); other causative conditions include blepharoptosis, dermatochalasis, and even extreme light sensitivity (photophobia). Apraxia of Lid Opening (ALO) is mostly seen in middle-aged and older adults

Who gets Apraxia of Eyelid Opening? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Individuals in any age category may be affected by Apraxia of Eyelid Opening, although most cases are seen in middle-aged and elderly adults
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all races and ethnicity are prone to developing the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Apraxia of Eyelid Opening? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors reported for Apraxia of Eyelid Opening include:

• Benign essential blepharospasm or focal dystonia of the eyelids (main risk factor)
• Brain tumors
• Certain occupations that involve prolonged working in bright lights (outdoors)
• Dermatochalasis - abnormal skin on the upper and/or lower eyelids
• Dystonic Parkinsonian syndrome
• Motor neuron disease
• Progressive supranuclear palsy
• Shy-Drager syndrome
• Use of certain medications

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening? (Etiology)

• Apraxia of Eyelid Opening indicates an inability of certain eye muscles to “open the eyes at will”. An apraxia indicates an inability to perform a learned action due to some neurological or muscular abnormality
• The commonly observed causative condition is benign essential blepharospasm (abnormal eyelid spasms). Other disorders and contributory factors include Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron disease, and lesions in the brain

Rarely, the exact cause of develop of the condition is unknown (idiopathic Apraxia of Eyelid Opening).

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening?

The signs and symptoms of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening may differ from one individual to another. It may be mild or severe, depending on several factors such as the underlying causative condition and the extent of the disease.

The signs and symptoms may include:

• Inability to open the eyes from a closed position
• Usually both the eyes are involved

Additional signs and symptoms of the underlying/associated condition, if any, may be noted.

How is Apraxia of Eyelid Opening Diagnosed?

Apraxia of Eyelid Opening may be diagnosed by the following observations and tests:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• General eye exam
• Neurological, motor skills, and cognitive assessment may be undertaken
• Electromyography
• Imaging studies including CT and MRI scans of the head and neck region may be undertaken based on the healthcare provider’s evaluation, in order to rule out other conditions

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening?

The complications of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening may include:

• Emotional stress
• Worsening of the eye condition, particularly in the absence of treatment (or due to delayed treatment)
• Recurrence of the condition
• Decreased quality of life
• Treatment complications

How is Apraxia of Eyelid Opening Treated?

The treatment measures for Apraxia of Eyelid Opening may involve:

• Botulinum toxin injections
• Administration of medications
• Surgical correction
• Undertaking appropriate treatment of any associated/underlying health conditions is important

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

How can Apraxia of Eyelid Opening be Prevented?

Currently, it may be difficult to prevent Apraxia of Eyelid Opening. However, the following factors may be considered to lower one’s risk for the same:

• Undertaking early and adequate treatment of any eye conditions, systemic diseases, and brain tumors causing Apraxia of Lid Opening
• Causative medications may be discontinued, and alternative medication prescribed

What is the Prognosis of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The overall prognosis of Apraxia of Eyelid Opening depends on the severity of the underlying condition and the treatment response
• Individuals who respond well to treatment have better prognosis than those who do not, and in whom recurrences are noted

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Apraxia of Eyelid Opening:

Please visit our Eye & Vision Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vision-center/