Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a rare ocular surface disease usually due to an autoimmune reaction of the patient’s body to the cells in the conjunctiva and eventually the cornea. It often begins with the feeling of dryness and irritation. Over months or years, the symptoms can worsen and vision can be affected. The diagnosis is usually made during an office examination and can sometimes be confirmed by a small biopsy of the conjunctiva. Treatment of OCP generally involves eye lubrication and oral anti-inflammatory medications. OCP can often be controlled with treatment but some patients get progressively worse despite aggressive management.