Synthetic fiber granuloma. 'Teddy bear' granuloma of the conjunctiva

Conjunctival synthetic fiber ("teddy bear") granulomas result from a granulomatous response to synthetic fabric fibers introduced into the conjunctival sac. There is a striking propensity for these lesions to develop in the pediatric age group, to be unilateral, and to be situated in the inferior conjunctival fornix. It is believed that proximity of the eye to comforting blankets, fabric toys, or forcibly applied pullover sweaters may provide the opportunity for ocular inoculation. Described below is the case of a 6-year-old girl who had a conjunctival synthetic fiber granuloma that exhibited the characteristic clinical and pathologic features of these lesions.