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Conjunctival aspergilloma with multiple mulberry nodules: a case report
Jiunn-Liang Chen1, Cheng-Chiang Wang, Shwu-Jiuan Sheu
1Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. jlchen@isca.vghks.gov.tw
The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
|July 23, 2005
Summary
A rare case of conjunctival aspergilloma, a fungus ball infection, was diagnosed in an immunocompetent patient presenting with chronic eye irritation. Surgical removal resolved symptoms, highlighting a rare cause of persistent conjunctival inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Conjunctival inflammation can have various causes, including infections.
- Subconjunctival masses are uncommon and require thorough investigation for diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old female presented with chronic left eye mucous discharge, tearing, and irritation for one year.
- Examination revealed a movable subconjunctival mass with severe papillary and follicular reaction on the upper tarsal conjunctiva.
Findings:
- Incision and curettage yielded black mulberry nodules.
- Microscopic examination showed septate hyphae characteristic of Aspergillus fungus ball (aspergilloma).
- Symptoms resolved post-surgery without antifungal treatment.
Implications:
- Conjunctival aspergilloma, though rare, should be considered in immunocompetent patients with recalcitrant conjunctival inflammation.
- Aspergillus, a common conjunctival fungus, can rarely cause subconjunctival infections.
- This case underscores the importance of considering fungal infections in the differential diagnosis of subconjunctival masses.