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Pterygium in lepromatous leprosy
E Daniel1, K Thompson, G J Ebenezer
1Department of Ophthalmology, Schieffelin Leprosy Research and Training Center, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Pterygia from the eyes of three lepromatous leprosy patients were histopathologically studied. All of the specimens contained acid-fast bacilli (AFB) and exhibited features of chronic inflammation. In the etio-pathogenesis of the pterygium that occurs in leprosy patients, the chronic inflammation that is a feature of the disease, the involvement of the nerves within the pterygium, the increased exposure to sunlight, dust and wind (especially in patients having lagophthalmos), and the ostrasization by society that necessitates living predominantly outdoor lives, should be taken into account.
Insights
Leprosy patients
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Pterygium is a common eye condition.
- Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae.
Observation:
- Histopathological study of pterygia from three lepromatous leprosy patients.
- All specimens showed acid-fast bacilli (AFB).
- Chronic inflammation was a consistent feature.
Findings:
- Acid-fast bacilli (AFB) presence in pterygia indicates ocular involvement in leprosy.
- Chronic inflammation is a key feature in the development of pterygium in leprosy patients.
- Nerve involvement within the pterygium may contribute to its pathogenesis.
Implications:
- Understanding the role of chronic inflammation and AFB in pterygium development is crucial.
- Environmental factors like sunlight, dust, and wind, exacerbated by lagophthalmos, likely contribute.
- Social factors leading to outdoor living in leprosy patients increase risk.