A Rare Hideout for Caterpillar Hairs

Ophthalmia nodosa is an inflammatory reaction of ocular tissues in response to caterpillar setae. Setae are fibers produced by a number of insects and plants, and there are extensive reports of cases caused by caterpillars and spiders. These hairs are covered by microscopic barbs that facilitate their entry and migration into the ocular tissues resulting in severe inflammation. They are predominantly found buried in the conjunctiva and cornea. Rarely, they may penetrate through the cornea to enter the anterior chamber, lens, and posterior segment. Caterpillar hair in the meibomian gland orifice is a rare presentation and has not been reported previously.