Isolated Conjunctival Lymphaticovenous Malformation Presenting as Persistent Conjunctival Chemosis

Introduction

Vascular lesions of the conjunctiva are a group of rare conditions that involve abnormal growth or development of blood vessels or lymphatics in the conjunctiva [1], [2], [3], [4], [5]. They may present as dilated, tortuous, or malformed vessels, which can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding in the affected area [1], [2], [3], [4], [5]. They can be broadly classified into two main categories: vascular tumors such as hemangioma, and vascular malformations such as hamartoma or lymphaticovenous malformations (LVM), formerly known as lymphangiomas [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6]. Vascular tumors are characterized by the presence of rapidly growing, well-defined masses of blood vessels, while vascular malformations are typically present at birth and consist of abnormally formed blood vessels that do not proliferate like tumors [6]. In addition to these benign tumors and malformations, Kaposisʼs sarcoma is a rare malignant tumor [2]. All these lesions can affect one or both eyes, and may cause symptoms such as blurred vision, foreign body sensation, redness, epiphora and bleeding. Treatment strategies depend on the etiology, size and location of the lesion as well as the patientʼs symptoms, and may include observation, surgical excision, laser- and cryotherapy, or the injection of therapeutic agents, etc. [1] – [9]. We describe a patient with an isolated conjunctival LVM, who presented with cystic subconjunctival hemorrhage to our emergency department.

Publication History

Received: 15 June 2023

Accepted: 20 October 2023

Accepted Manuscript online:
27 October 2023

Article published online:
19 January 2024

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