Pemphigus vulgaris: bilateral plica semilunaris involvement.
OBJECTIVE
To present a case of pemphigus vulgaris, involving the conjunctiva, specifically the plica semilunaris, in both eyes of a 33-year-old woman.


METHODS
Ocular evaluation showed bilateral plica semilunaris vegetations extending for 3 mm linearly. Sequential excisional biopsies of both affected plica were performed and sent for pathological examination and immunofluorescent staining.


RESULTS
After each excisional biopsy, the patient's ocular symptoms resolved. Excisional biopsies showed suprabasilar clefting within the epithelium; lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and immunopathology showed intraepithelial intercellular and basement membrane zone staining with immunoglobulin G consistent with pemphigus vulgaris. At 1-year follow-up, the patient continues to be asymptomatic with no signs of recurrence.


CONCLUSIONS
Excisional biopsy, in a very symptomatic patient with pemphigus vulgaris with conjunctival vegetations, may hasten his or her recovery.
Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island, Rockville Centre, NY 11570, USA.
Jay M
JM
Fiore
Henry D
HD
Perry
Eric D
ED
Donnenfeld
Samuel A
SA
Berger
D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D003229:Conjunctival Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D058447:Eye Pain / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D007839:Functional Laterality; D006801:Humans; D010392:Pemphigus / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D014792:Visual Acuity