| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A skin fold of the upper eyelid (from the nose to the inner side of the eyebrow) covering the inner corner (canthus) of the eye. |
| Alternative Names | Plica palpebronasalis |
| Considerations | The presence of an epicanthal fold is normal in people of Asiatic descent. An epicanthal fold is also common in children with Down syndrome . Epicanthal folds may also be seen in young children of any race before the bridge of the nose begins to elevate. |
| Common Causes | normal appearance (for people of Asiatic descent and some non-Oriental infants) Down syndrome Turner syndrome phenylketonuria (PKU) Williams syndrome Noonan syndrome Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome blepharophimosis syndrome |
| Home Care | There is usually no home care needed. |
| Call your health care provider if | This trait is usually found during the first well baby exam. Call your health care provider if you notice epicanthal folds on your child's eyes and the reason for their presence is unknown. |
| What to expect at your health care provider's office | The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include: family history Are any family members affected with Down syndrome or other genetic disorder? Is there any family history of mental retardation or birth defects? other What other symptoms or abnormalities are also present? Physical examination: A non-Oriental child that is born with epicanthal folds may be examined for additional signs of Down syndrome or other genetic disorders. After seeing your health care provider: If Down syndrome or another diagnosis was made by your health care provider, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record. |
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