Anterior Segment

Phlyctenular Keratoconjunctivitis

Also known as: phlyctenulis, phlyctenule, limbal nodule, corneal phlycten, staphylococcal hypersensitivity, TB conjunctivitis, phlyctenular disease, scrofulous ophthalmia

Overview

A delayed hypersensitivity reaction (Type IV) of the conjunctiva or cornea to microbial antigens. Classically associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens in endemic regions; in developed countries most commonly triggered by Staphylococcal antigens from blepharitis. A phlycten (small, raised, nodular lesion) typically appears at the limbus and can migrate onto the cornea, causing photophobia, corneal scarring, and vascularisation.

What OptoGuide™ covers for phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis

  • Recognition patterns — symptoms, signs, and differentiators
  • Don't-miss risks and escalation triggers
  • Management tiers with linked Australian therapeutics
  • Referral urgency, specialty, and letter drafting

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