LIGNEOUS CONJUNCTIVITIS (LC)

Ligneous conjunctivitis is a rare disorder characterized by the buildup of a protein called fibrin which causes inflammation of the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis) and leads to thick, woody (ligneous), inflamed growths that are yellow, white, or red. Ligneous conjunctivitis most often occurs on the inside of the eyelids, but may also affect the sclera, cornea and pupil, leading to vision loss.

The main clinical manifestation of systemic plasminogen deficiency and typically presents in childhood. Seen higher incidence in females as compared to males. With plasminogen deficiency, wound-healing capability is diminished and is most pronounced in mucous membranes, such as conjunctiva.

Plasmin plays an important role in haemostasis, as well as, is an integral component of wound healing (acts by degrading fibrin). Due to plasminogen deficiency, fibrin rich membranes or mucous strands accumulate, which on desiccation of the fibrin leads to the ligneous consistency of the conjunctival lesions.

SYMPTOMS:

Early cases

• Redness.
• Chronic watering.
• Mild discomfort.
• Pain.
• Photophobia (sensitivity to light).
• White or red masses on conjunctiva.

Severe cases 

• Constant discomfort which affect daily activities.
• Lesions may extend beyond the lid margin.
• Membranes.

CAUSES:

 The main cause is said to be plasminogen deficiency due to genetic defect in PLG gene

The types of plasminogen deficiency are:

• Type I (hypo-plasminogenaemia)is a quantitative deficiency- most associated with LC.
• Type II (dys-plasminogenaemia)is a qualitative deficiency.

 DIAGNOSIS:

Diagnosis of LC is based on the clinical picture (ocular and/or extra-ocular membranous lesions), the typical histological findings, and a possible positive family history.

EYE EXAMINATION

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT:

Homoeopathic medicines act constitutionally,it takes the person as awhole rather than the symptoms only .few remedies are stated below which can help .

• ARNICA MONTANA
• APIS MELLIFICA 
• BOTHOROPS 
• VIPERA
• HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA
• LACHESIS
• Argentum nit
• Thuja occ.