Lymphangiectasia haemorrhagica conjunctivae.

PURPOSE

To re-describe a condition that has not been mentioned in the literature for more than four decades and to outline a new method of treatment of the pathology using an argon laser.

METHODS

Nine patients were identified over a 2 year period who fitted a clinical picture consistent with the features of lymphangiectasia haemorrhagica. Three were treated for frequent recurrent haemorrhages with a newly developed technique using the argon laser and followed for up to 2 years.

RESULTS

None of the three treated patients has had a recurrence of the condition to date. In the six untreated patients the condition resolved spontaneously after repeated attacks over between 8 months and 8 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphangiectasia haemorrhagica conjunctivae is probably more common than expected and may resolve spontaneously, but is readily amenable to treatment with the argon laser if attacks become frequent, uncomfortable or unsightly.