Clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical outcome of synthetic fiber conjunctival granuloma

BACKGROUND: Until recently, synthetic fiber conjunctival granuloma (SFCG) is rarely reported and has been poorly understood. Our study was to explore the clinical features, histopathologic characteristics, surgical outcomes, and prognosis of SFCG after surgical excision. METHODS: Retrospective review of clinical findings, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies identified 18 cases of SFCG. Specimens were routinely processed and stained with H&E. Immunohistochemical stains for GMS, PAS, CD68 and CK-pan were also performed. RESULTS: Eighteen patients with an average age of 9.3 ± 6.6 years had a tender white to red mass on the conjunctiva. All the lesions were completely removed, and none of the patients relapsed. Histologically, all of the specimens revealed inflammatory granulation tissues with a large number of inflammatory cells infiltration and the presence of synthetic fibers. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for CD68, CK, GMS and PAS. CONCLUSIONS: Synthetic fiber conjunctival granuloma is an uncommon lesion with foreign body sensation caused by inoculation of synthetic exogenous materials. These lesions are mostly unilateral and occur in the inferior conjunctival fornix. SFCGs are characterized by a large number of inflammatory cells infiltration and the presence of synthetic fibers. Surgical excision followed by topical corticosteroids has been clinically proven to be effective. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12886-020-01717-1.