[Recurrent keratoconjunctivitis]

Molluscum contagiosum is a highly infectious viral disease of the skin and mucous membranes. These lesions are found particularly often in children and young adults and are generally self-limiting. Nevertheless, molluscum contagiosum lesions in close vicinity to the eyes should be actively removed if they cause conjunctival or corneal irritation.

We report the case of a 14-year-old boy who was treated for approximately 9 months for recurrent chronic keratoconjunctivitis with corneal neovascularization. Careful inspection of the eyelids revealed molluscum contagiosum. After removal of the lesions on both sides, short-term anti-inflammatory therapy and long-term surface lubrication, a gradual improvement was observed so that an almost complete visual recovery was achieved.

In long-standing keratoconjunctivitis refractory to treatment, special attention should be paid to the possible presence of molluscum contagiosum, particularly in children and the lesions should be promptly removed.