Systemic and topical fresh-frozen plasma treatment in a newborn with ligneous conjunctivitis

We report the results of systemic and topical fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) treatment and conjunctival membrane excision of a newborn with ligneous conjunctivitis.

The newborn, referred because of bilateral membranous conjunctivitis, was hospitalized with the preliminary diagnosis of gonococcic conjunctivitis. The conjunctival membranes were excised on the fourth day of topical antibiotherapy. Plasminogen deficiency and ligneous conjunctivitis were diagnosed from the hematology consultation after recurrence of the conjunctival membranes.

FFP was used systemically and topically. After this medical treatment period, the conjunctival membranes were excised with electrocautery under general anesthesia. Topical FFP was gradually decreased after surgery and ended in the third postoperative month. Recurrence was not seen through the first postoperative year.

Topical and systemic FFP treatment and conjunctival membrane excision may help rapid rehabilitation and prevent recurrence in cases with ligneous conjunctivitis.