Spring catarrh (vernal keratoconjunctivitis) most characteristically causes which corneal complication?
- A Dendritic ulcer in the inferior cornea
- B Shield ulcer (oval epithelial defect) in the upper cornea near the limbus with deposits ✓
- C Subepithelial fibrosis and panus formation at the limbus
- D Corneal oedema with Descemet's membrane folds
Correct answer: B. Shield ulcer (oval epithelial defect) in the upper cornea near the limbus with deposits
Explanation
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) causes shield (Shield) ulcer — a sterile, oval, epithelial defect in the superior cornea caused by toxic mediators (eosinophil proteins, MBP) from giant papillae in the upper palpebral conjunctiva abrading the corneal epithelium. A chalky white plaque may be seen at the base. Superficial vascularisation (panus) at the superior limbus (Herbert's pits in inactive trachoma) is a different entity. Dendritic ulcers are caused by HSV.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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