A 70-year-old patient with chronic uveitis presents with a horizontal band of chalky white deposits in the interpalpebral zone of the cornea, starting peripherally with a clear limbal gap. The deposits are located in Bowman's layer. What is the most likely composition of these deposits?
- A Cholesterol crystals
- B Calcium hydroxyapatite ✓
- C Uric acid crystals
- D Amyloid
Correct answer: B. Calcium hydroxyapatite
Explanation
Band keratopathy consists of calcium hydroxyapatite deposits in Bowman's layer, typically in the interpalpebral fissure. It occurs in chronic ocular inflammation (uveitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis), phthisis bulbi, or hypercalcaemia. The clear limbal gap and horizontal band pattern are characteristic. Cholesterol, uric acid, and amyloid do not deposit in this pattern.
Reference: Basic and Clinical Science Course, Section 8: External Disease and Cornea, AAO 2023-2024 ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.