In Thygeson's superficial punctate keratopathy, the clinical observation distinguishing it from other causes of SPK (viral, chlamydial, toxic) is:
- A Superior punctate staining with follicular conjunctivitis and preauricular lymphadenopathy
- B Interpalpebral distribution with vital staining of lesions that are coarse, slightly elevated, and may migrate between examinations ✓
- C Inferior staining pattern with papillary conjunctival reaction and mucopurulent discharge
- D Central corneal staining with reduced corneal sensation and satellite stromal infiltrates
Correct answer: B. Interpalpebral distribution with vital staining of lesions that are coarse, slightly elevated, and may migrate between examinations
Explanation
Thygeson's SPK is characterized by coarse, slightly elevated, granular intraepithelial opacities clustered in the central/interpalpebral cornea, with minimal conjunctival reaction, normal corneal sensation, and no preauricular lymphadenopathy. Crucially, the lesions may appear to 'move' between visits and stain with rose bengal/fluorescein. It is a chronic, relapsing condition of unknown etiology (possibly viral). Treatment is with topical steroids or cyclosporine; unlike EKC, there is no follicular reaction or adenopathy.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.