Conjunctival lymphangiectasia presenting as pediatric pseudopterygium

The aim of this study is to report a case of conjunctival lymphangiectasia simulating a pediatric pterygium.

A 10-year-old girl with Turner syndrome and familial history of pterygia presented because of a conjunctival growing lesion clinically consistent with pterygium in her left eye. Visual acuity (VA) was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/40 in the left eye. Cycloplegic refraction was +1.50sph -0.50cyl×93° and +9.00sph -9.00cyl×180° in the right and left eyes, respectively.

Resection of the lesion with amniotic membrane implantation and conjunctival autograft was performed. The histologic examination revealed conjunctival lymphangiectasia. Ten months later, the patient did not show any signs of recurrence. Refraction in the left eye was +0.5sph -1.5cyl×70°, and spontaneous VA was 20/20 in both eyes.

Pediatric pseudopterygium may be the clinical presentation of several ocular surface disorders. Thus, pathologic analysis of this lesion should be considered to determine its exact nature. Surgery lessens the refractive defect and hastens visual recovery.