Background: Amyloidosis is a spectrum of disorders characterized by the deposition of amyloid that causes severe damage to many organ systems. However, conjunctival amyloidosis is thought to be the manifestation of a local immunologic disorder and rarely affects the organ systems. We present two cases of conjunctival amyloidosis found as unilateral ptosis at initial visit.
Case 1: 43-year-old-woman presented with unilateral ptosis and discomfort for the left eye. She had been treated with topical antihistamines and corticosteroids for allergic conjunctivitis. However, as symptoms persisted she was referred to us. At initial visit, unilateral ptosis, subconjunctival hemorrhage and waxy-yellow mass were found. Incisional biopsy was performed and histpathological examination revealed amyloid in the conjunctival stroma.
Case 2: 31-year-old woman presented with unilateral ptosis and discomfort of palpebral superior conjunctiva in the left eye. At initial visit, the examination of the left superior palpebral conjunctiva showed waxy-yellow mass and hemorrhage. Incisional biopsy was performed and histopathological examination revealed amyloid in the conjunctival stroma.
Conclusion: Unilateral ptosis may be an indication of conjunctival amyloidosis.
Nippon Ganka Gakkai Zasshi (J Jpn Ophthalmol Soc) 120: 797-801, 2016.