Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes progressive scarring of the conjunctiva. It can severely damage the ocular surface and lead to blindness if untreated.
Clinical signs
Early features include redness, irritation, and recurrent conjunctivitis. Over time, scarring can shorten the conjunctival fornices, fuse the eyelids to the globe, and damage the cornea.
- Often affects both eyes
- May be associated with mouth or skin lesions
- Can cause severe dry eye and corneal ulceration
Treatment
Management requires systemic immunosuppression and careful ocular surface care. Long-term follow-up in specialist clinics such as general ophthalmology is crucial to monitor control and protect vision.
