Experience of treating secondary dry eye syndrome caused by eyelid ectropion after chemotherapy in a patient with rectal malignancy

The clinical case demonstrates eye complications after chemotherapy. Patient K. complained of redness of both eyes, lacrimation, external eyelid changes, hyperemia, and dry face and forehead skin. The patient was undergoing chemotherapy for rectal cancer. Chemotherapy led to dermatitis, which was complicated by eyelid ectropion, and caused secondary dry eye syndrome. This was the result of toxic, inhibitory effects of chemotherapy on growing, fast-acting skin cells. The treatment was performed in conjunction with a dermatologist and had a positive effect. One month after treatment, skin and eye conditions improved. A clinical example has shown that chemotherapy can serve as a starting point for the formation of eyelid ectropion and the subsequent manifestation of dry eye syndrome. Patient follow-up demonstrated that a multidisciplinary approach to disease diagnosis is needed in the development of secondary dry eye syndrome.