OBSOLETE: Epicanthal fold

Epicanthal fold (also known as epicanthus) is not a disease but rather a clinical sign or morphological feature. It is listed as an obsolete entry in Orphanet (code 98573), meaning it is no longer classified as a distinct clinical entity within that database. An epicanthal fold refers to a skin fold of the upper eyelid that covers the inner corner (medial canthus) of the eye. This feature is a normal anatomical variant in many populations, particularly those of East Asian descent, and is also commonly seen in young children of all ethnic backgrounds, often diminishing as the nasal bridge develops with age. When epicanthal folds appear outside of normal ethnic or developmental variation, they may be associated with a wide range of genetic syndromes and chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Turner syndrome, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, Williams syndrome, Noonan syndrome, and many others. In these contexts, epicanthal folds serve as one of several dysmorphic features that aid in clinical diagnosis rather than representing a standalone condition. Because this entry is obsolete and represents a physical finding rather than a disease, there is no specific treatment for epicanthal folds themselves. Surgical correction (epicanthoplasty) may be performed for cosmetic reasons or when the folds contribute to the appearance of pseudostrabismus, but this is not a medical necessity in most cases.

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