Abstract
Introduction: Conjunctival scarring is an important clinical concern in ophthalmology which usually is an attribute of Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid (OCP) and trachoma. Although OCP and trachoma have distinct origins and clinical manifestations, both conditions exhibit conjunctival scarring as a shared characteristic, leading to diagnostic challenges due to the similarities of the typical symptoms and signs. AS-OCT is a non-invasive imaging technique used in ophthalmology to diagnose and manage ocular surface diseases
Aim of the study: To provide a comprehensive comparison of OCP and trachoma, emphasizing their epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic approaches and the role of AS-OCT, and management strategies
Results: Diagnosis of trachoma in the endemic areas is difficult as it presents with similar symptoms as in OCP. Tissue biopsy used to diagnose OCP has limitations such as low specificity and invasiveness. Direct immunofluorescence (DIF) is the gold standard but has poor sensitivity in severe disease. AS-OCT may have the potential for differential diagnosis between the two conditions based on specific ocular surface characteristics.
Conclusion: AS-OCT is a non-invasive tool that helps diagnose and manage various ocular surface lesions, both benign and malignant. It also can help differentiate between OCP and chronic trachoma, which will decrease the need for invasive biopsy.