Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid.

Abstract

Cicatricial pemphigoid is an inflammatory disease of presumed autoimmune etiology. It most commonly affects the conjunctiva and oral mucosa and less commonly the skin. The ocular manifestations of the disease include bilateral conjunctival shrinkage, xerosis, and corneal opacification. The progression of cicatricial pemphigoid is variable and can be interrupted by periods of remission or by periods of rapid exacerbation. Ocular surgery and topical pharmaceuticals may contribute to the exacerbation of this disease. Current treatment consists of systemic immunosuppressants and systemic corticosteroids.