Which statement correctly distinguishes conjunctival papillae from follicles?

• A Both papillae and follicles have central vascular cores and are pathognomonic of bacterial infection
• B Follicles have a central vascular core; papillae are avascular white nodules
• C Papillae have a central vascular core; follicles are avascular grey-white elevations ✓
• D Follicles are always giant in size; papillae are always < 1 mm

Explanation

Conjunctival papillae are hyperaemic elevations with a central fibrovascular core, giving them a polygonal, red appearance; they are seen in allergic and bacterial conjunctivitis. Follicles are avascular, grey-white, dome-shaped lymphoid aggregates without a central vessel, seen in viral, chlamydicular, and reactive conditions. Giant papillae exceed 1 mm and are characteristic of VKC.

Reference: AAO Basic and Clinical Science Course, Section 8: External Disease and Cornea, Standard ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.