Salzmann's nodular degeneration of the cornea characteristically follows which pre-existing corneal condition, and its histopathological hallmark is:

• A Follows keratoconus; hyaline deposits in Bowman's layer
• B Follows contact lens overuse; subepithelial inflammatory granulomas
• C Idiopathic; lipid deposition in anterior stroma
• D Follows chronic keratitis or phlyctenulosis; fibrous tissue replacing Bowman's layer with overlying thinned epithelium ✓

Explanation

Salzmann's nodular degeneration follows chronic corneal inflammation — most commonly phlyctenular keratitis, trachoma, interstitial keratitis, rosacea keratitis, and long-term contact lens use. Histologically, Bowman's layer is replaced by avascular fibrous connective tissue (fibrocellular pannus) that elevates the overlying thinned epithelium, forming bluish-white elevated nodules typically in the mid-peripheral cornea. There is no Bowman's layer beneath the nodules. Treatment for symptomatic cases includes topical cyclosporine, superficial keratectomy (manual or with PTK), or lamellar keratoplasty. It is not related to primary Bowman's dystrophy.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.