obsolete pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis

Pseudomembranous Diphtheritic Conjunctivitis: An Obsolete Condition

Pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis is an outdated term that was once used to describe a specific type of conjunctival infection. According to search results, this condition was characterized by the formation of a pseudomembrane on the surface of the eye, which was often accompanied by symptoms such as eyelid oedema, discharge, and local lymph node enlargement [9].

The pseudomembrane itself was composed of exudates that had adhered to the conjunctival epithelium, and could be easily peeled off with a damp cotton swab [4]. This condition was often associated with infections caused by diphtheria bacteria, but it can also be caused by other organisms such as Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, Chlamydia, Corynebacterium, and adenovirus [13].

In severe cases of pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis, the disease could progress to true membrane formation, conjunctival necrosis, and sloughing, leading to corneal complications [14]. However, with modern treatment options, this condition is now considered obsolete.

Key Features:

• Formation of a pseudomembrane on the surface of the eye
• Symptoms such as eyelid oedema, discharge, and local lymph node enlargement
• Pseudomembrane composed of exudates adhering to the conjunctival epithelium
• Can be caused by diphtheria bacteria or other organisms

References:

[4] Context result 4 [9] Context result 9 [13] Context result 13 [14] Context result 14

Redness, Pain, and Discharge

The signs exhibited by patients suffering from this type of conjunctivitis are the same as the general signs of conjunctivitis, which include redness, pain, and a copious, purulent milky-white discharge [3]. This heavy discharge is often accompanied by a papillary reaction, making it difficult to distinguish from other forms of conjunctivitis.

Pseudomembranous Formation

A distinctive feature of this condition is the formation of pseudomembranes on the conjunctiva. In severe cases, subconjunctival hemorrhages, chemosis, and pseudomembranes can manifest [1]. The pseudo-membranous formation on the conjunctiva was very remarkable in a case reported by Bouisson.

Comparison with Other Conjunctivitis

The signs exhibited by patients suffering from this type of conjunctivitis are similar to those of other forms of conjunctivitis. However, the presence of pseudomembranes and a copious, purulent discharge can help distinguish it from other types of conjunctivitis.

Incubation Period and Onset

The incubation period for this condition is typically 2-5 days, after which symptoms such as sore throat, malaise, cervical lymphadenopathy, and low-grade fever may appear [14]. The onset of symptoms can be gradual, initially resembling a typical viral upper respiratory infection.

Other Possible Symptoms

In addition to the above symptoms, patients with this condition may also experience photophobia, excess tearing, and pain with eye movement [5].

References: [1] - Context result 1 [3] - Context result 3 [5] - Context result 5 [14] - Context result 14

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are various diagnostic tests and methods associated with pseudomembranous conjunctivitis, but not specifically for "obsolete" or "diphtheritic" forms.

However, I can provide some general information on diagnostic tests related to conjunctivitis:

• Laboratory testing, including ELISA or Western Blot, can be used to diagnose fungal eye infections [2].
• A metrizamide gastrointestinal series may show intestinal perforation or other complications in cases of pseudomembranous conjunctivitis [4].
• Ultrasonography and radionuclide scintigraphy can help suggest the presence of gallbladder enlargement or inflammation, but diagnosis can be challenging [6].
• Laboratory examination revealed plasminogen deficiency in some cases, and a good response was observed to topical fresh frozen plasma (FFP) treatment without systemic administration [8].

It's worth noting that pseudomembranous conjunctivitis is often diagnosed based on clinical presentation and examination findings, rather than specific diagnostic tests.

Regarding "obsolete" or "diphtheritic" forms of pseudomembranous conjunctivitis, I couldn't find any relevant information in the provided context. However, it's possible that these terms refer to historical or outdated concepts related to diphtheria or other conditions.

If you could provide more context or clarify what you mean by "obsolete" or "diphtheritic" forms of pseudomembranous conjunctivitis, I may be able to provide a more accurate and relevant response.

Differential Diagnosis of Obsolete Pseudomembranous Diphtheritic Conjunctivitis

Pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis is a rare and potentially serious condition characterized by the formation of a pseudomembrane on the conjunctiva, often caused by diphtheria bacteria. However, with the decline in incidence of diphtheria due to widespread vaccination, this condition has become relatively obsolete. Nevertheless, it is essential to consider its differential diagnosis in cases where symptoms suggest a similar presentation.

Possible Causes:

• Sclerema neonatorum: A rare condition affecting newborns, characterized by thickening of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
• Milia: Small, white bumps on the skin or conjunctiva, often caused by keratin cysts.
• Erythema toxicum: A rash-like condition that can affect the skin and conjunctiva, typically seen in newborns.

Other Considerations:

• Chemical (e.g., silver nitrate) conjunctivitis: A type of conjunctivitis caused by exposure to chemicals, which can present with similar symptoms.
• Non-infectious causes: Other conditions that may mimic the presentation of pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis, such as allergic reactions or irritant contact dermatitis.

Key Points:

• Pseudomembranous diphtheritic conjunctivitis is a rare and potentially serious condition.
• With declining incidence due to vaccination, it is essential to consider alternative diagnoses in cases where symptoms suggest a similar presentation.
• Differential diagnosis should include conditions such as sclerema neonatorum, milia, erythema toxicum, chemical (e.g., silver nitrate) conjunctivitis, and non-infectious causes.

References:

• [3] Apr 7, 2023 — The different causes that have been observed for pseudomembranous conjunctivitis are: Bacterial Cause; Mild Diphtheria; Streptococcus ...
• [4] Differential diagnosis. Sclerema neonatorum, milia, and erythema toxicum are ... Compared with chemical (e.g., silver nitrate) conjunctivitis, other noninfectious ...
• [10] Differential diagnosis. The differential diagnosis includes any infectious or non-infectious cause that may present with similar symptoms.
• [14] Membranous conjunctivitis and pseudomembranous conjunctivitis are distinct forms of conjunctivitis characterized by the presence of membrane-like structures on the conjunctival surface.

Note: The references provided are based on the search results within the context, which may not be exhaustive or up-to-date.