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Published on: September 20, 2018
Factitious pseudo-membranous conjunctivitis in an adolescent boy
Jelka G Orsoni1, Pierangela Rubino, Isabella Pellistri
1Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Parma, Agrigento, Italy.
Case Reports in Ophthalmology
|April 9, 2011
Summary
Factitious conjunctivitis, often challenging to diagnose, can occur without corneal involvement. This case highlights the importance of conjunctival biopsy and psychiatric evaluation for accurate diagnosis in adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Psychiatry
- Dermatology
Background:
- Factitious ocular lesions present diagnostic challenges, particularly when confined to the conjunctiva.
- Preserved corneal integrity can mask symptoms, complicating early detection.
Observation:
- A case report details a 14-year-old boy with bilateral pseudo-membranous conjunctivitis unresponsive to conventional treatments.
- The condition was associated with significant weight loss and self-reported unusual behaviors.
Findings:
- Conjunctival biopsy revealed foreign material (cotton wool fragments), leading to a diagnosis of factitious conjunctivitis.
- Psychiatric assessment confirmed the diagnosis, underscoring the psychological component of the condition.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, including biopsy and psychiatric consultation, for diagnosing factitious conjunctivitis.
- Ophthalmologists and psychiatrists must collaborate to manage complex cases of self-inflicted ocular conditions.
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