Ocular findings in xeroderma pigmentosum: report of two cases

Xeroderma pigmentosum is a hereditary precancerous dermatosis caused by a defect in DNA repair-replication after damage induced by exposure to ultraviolet light. The clinical course is characterized by progressive hyperpigmentation and atrophy of the skin with tumorigenesis, basal and squamous cell carcinomas being most common. Ocular involvement occurs in up to 80% of cases, with recurrent infection, neoplasia, and atrophy of the lids, conjunctiva, and cornea the most common findings. Two cases of xeroderma pigmentosum and their ophthalmic findings are described.