Which feature distinguishes a true membranous conjunctivitis from a pseudomembranous one?
- A The membrane is composed of fibrin and inflammatory cells
- B Removal of the membrane causes bleeding and leaves a raw surface ✓
- C The membrane is confined to the palpebral conjunctiva
- D The membrane resolves spontaneously within 48 hours
Correct answer: B. Removal of the membrane causes bleeding and leaves a raw surface
Explanation
In true membranous conjunctivitis, classically caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and sometimes by beta-haemolytic streptococci, the exudate infiltrates the superficial epithelium, so peeling it tears the epithelium and produces bleeding with a raw bleeding surface. In pseudomembrane, the fibrinous coagulum lies only on the surface and peels off cleanly. Both membranes contain fibrin and inflammatory cells, so composition does not separate them, eliminating option A.
Reference: Parsons' Diseases of the Eye, 23rd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.