Sarcoidosis Presenting with Cicatrizing Conjunctivitis.

PURPOSE: To report two patients with sarcoidosis initially presenting with cicatrizing conjunctivitis. CASE REPORTS: Both patients with chronic conjunctivitis were referred for further management. The first patient had conjunctival granulomas, subepithelial fibrosis, and forniceal foreshortening. The second patient had extensive upper and lower conjunctival scarring with forniceal foreshortening and symblepharon formation of both eyes. Conjunctival biopsy specimens revealed noncaseating granulomas. Immunofluorescein studies were negative for immunoreactant deposition in the basement membrane. Because of further diagnostic evaluations, sarcoidosis was determined to be the final cause of the cicatrizing conjunctivitis. CONCLUSIONS: Sarcoidosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of cicatrizing conjunctivitis. Recognition of the characteristic noncaseating granulomas in the conjunctival biopsy and initiation of the appropriate evaluations are essential in establishing the diagnosis and determining the extent of systemic involvement.

Duke Scholars

Author Esen Karamursel Akpek Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery