Ligneous conjunctivitis is a rare chronic pseudomembranous conjunctivitis associated with deficiency of which protein?

• A IgA
• B Complement factor C3
• C Lactoferrin
• D Plasminogen ✓

Explanation

Ligneous conjunctivitis is caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous deficiency of plasminogen (fibrinolytic pathway), leading to accumulation of fibrin-rich pseudomembranes on mucous membranes including the conjunctiva. The membranes are 'wood-like' (ligneous = woody) in texture. Systemic plasminogen deficiency can also cause ligneous gingivitis, tracheobronchitis, and otitis media. Treatment includes topical plasminogen (where available), fresh frozen plasma, and local wound management.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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