Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid and Solid Tumors: Review with Case Series.

Abstract

Introduction: Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by recurrent conjunctival inflammation and progressive cicatrization, affecting nearly 70% of mucous membrane pemphigoid patients and potentially leading to blindness. Literature suggests an association between OCP and malignancy.

Methods: This case series reports on 10 clinically diagnosed OCP patients with solid malignancies seen at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary between January 2019 and January 2025. In addition, a review of current literature on the association between OCP and cancer was conducted using MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases.

Results: Six patients had an OCP diagnosis before their cancer diagnosis, three had a cancer diagnosis prior to OCP diagnosis, and one had both simultaneously. Patients diagnosed with cancer after OCP experienced clinically worsening OCP, while those with prior cancer diagnosis had stable OCP.

Discussions: Given the potential association with malignancy, patients with OCP or cicatricial conjunctivitis should undergo thorough systemic histories, age-appropriate cancer screenings, and patient education within a multidisciplinary care model to optimize early screening and improve the ocular and overall health outcomes.