Delayed-onset ligneous conjunctivitis as a rare association with congenital hydrocephalous: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Ligneous conjunctivitis is an uncommon form of chronic and recurrent conjunctivitis characterized by a thick, "woody," yellowish pseudomembranous lesion on the tarsal conjunctiva. Plasminogen deficiency plays an important role in this disease, which affects the mucous membranes, including the conjunctiva as well as other systemic organs. In rare cases, congenital hydrocephalus is associated with this disease. We present the case of a 21-year-old woman with delayed-onset bilateral ligneous conjunctivitis and a history of congenital hydrocephalous in infancy. She was treated with topical ophthalmic medication and surgical excision.