Posters

Phthiriasis palpebrarum: an uncommon cause of blepharoconjunctivitis

Poster Details

First Author: N. Lomi INDIA

Co Author(s):    K. Bhutia   P. Singh   K. Pradhan              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Case report of phthiriasis palpebrarum in previously misdiagnosed allergic conjunctivitis

Setting:

Sikkim manipal institute of medical sciences, Gangtok, India

Methods:

We report 2 cases of Phthiriasis palpebrarum in patients, which was initially misdiagnosed as allergic blepharoconjunctivitis. Parasites and their nits were found adhering to the eyelashes and eyelids of both eyes as well as scalp hairs. The histopathology exam revealed the presence of adults and eggs of Pthirus palpebrarum. We mechanically removed the infested eyelashes of both eyes at their base, with lice and nits followed by petroleum jelly application over eyelashes.

Results:

No recurrence was found during 3 months of follow up.

Conclusions:

Removal of the eyelashes and phenothrin head shampoo may be effective in treating Phthiriasis palpebrarum. In cases of blepharoconjunctivitis, eyelids and eyelashes should be carefully examined by slit lamp to avoid misdiagnosis.

Financial Disclosure:

NONE