Ligneous conjunctivitis is a rare form of chronic pseudomembranous conjunctivitis caused by deficiency of which factor, leading to fibrin accumulation?

• A Protein C
• B Factor XIII
• C Alpha-2 antiplasmin
• D Plasminogen (type I plasminogen deficiency) ✓

Explanation

Ligneous (wood-like) conjunctivitis is caused by homozygous type I plasminogen deficiency. Plasminogen is the precursor to plasmin, which degrades fibrin. Without plasminogen, fibrin deposits accumulate in mucosal surfaces (especially conjunctiva) forming thick, wood-like pseudomembranes. The membranes recur after excision unless the underlying deficiency is treated. Treatment options include topical plasminogen (from fresh frozen plasma), topical heparin, and fresh frozen plasma injections. The same condition can involve gingiva, trachea, and female genital tract. Systemic plasminogen replacement therapy is the definitive treatment.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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