Ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid is an autoimmune disorder that causes the conjunctivae to scar and causes the corneas to become cloudy.
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Ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid occurs when the immune system attacks the mucous membranes in the eyes.
The eyes become red, then the conjunctivae scar, eyelashes turn inward, and the corneas becomes clouded, blocking vision.
The diagnosis is suspected based on symptoms and the results of an eye examination and is usually confirmed by a biopsy of the conjunctiva.
Artificial tears can be used, inwardly turned eyelashes can be removed, and some people require medications such as dapsone or others that suppress the immune system.Artificial tears can be used, inwardly turned eyelashes can be removed, and some people require medications such as dapsone or others that suppress the immune system.
(See also Overview of Conjunctival and Scleral Disorders and Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid.)
Ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid is an autoimmune disorder (a malfunction of the body's immune system that causes the body to attack its own tissues). It causes inflammation that begins in the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white of the eye). This disorder can also affect other mucous membranes of the body.
An Inside Look at the Eye
Symptoms of Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
In people with ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid, both eyes are affected, becoming red at first. Later, the conjunctivae shrink, making it difficult to pull the upper or lower eyelid away from the eye. Much later, the eyes become dry.
The cornea (the clear layer in front of the iris and pupil) can become cloudy, preventing light from reaching the retina and decreasing vision.
The conjunctivae can scar and shrink, causing eyelashes to turn inward (see Trichiasis) and further damage the cornea.
Diagnosis of Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
A doctor's evaluation of symptoms
An eye examination
A biopsy of the conjunctiva
Doctors usually suspect the diagnosis based on the person's symptoms and the results of an eye examination, including an examination with a slit lamp (an instrument that enables a doctor to examine the eye under high magnification).
The diagnosis is usually confirmed by a biopsy of the conjunctiva. In this type of biopsy, a sample of the conjunctiva is removed and examined under a microscope.
Treatment of Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
Artificial tears
Removal of eyelashes
Sometimes medications
People with ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid can use artificial tears for dryness.
Doctors can remove inwardly turned eyelashes (for example, by pulling, freezing, or burning with electricity) to help relieve symptoms and prevent some complications.
If the disorder progresses, dapsone or another medication that suppresses the immune system, such as methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclophosphamide, is needed.If the disorder progresses, dapsone or another medication that suppresses the immune system, such as methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, or cyclophosphamide, is needed.
