Giant papillary conjunctivitis following cataract extraction

Out of a series of 600 cataract extractions, 14 patients were found to have giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) due to 10-0 nylon sutures. When renewed conjunctival irritation appears weeks or months after surgery, GPC should be suspected and confirmed by eversion of the upper eyelid at the slit lamp. Free edges of protruding corneoscleral nylon sutures should be looked for. Signs and symptoms of GPC disappear within one to four weeks after removal of the offending suture.