In which of the following systemic condition, conjunctival xerosis is seen as a clinical finding?
High-Yield Explanation
Depending upon the etiology, conjunctival xerosis can be divided into two groups, parenchymatous and epithelial xerosis. Parenchymatous xerosis occurs following cicatricial disorganization of the conjunctiva due to local causes which can be in the form of, Widespread destructive interstitial conjunctivitis as seen in trachoma, diphtheritic membranous conjunctivitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, pemphigus or pemphigoid conjunctivitis, thermal, chemical or radiational burns of conjunctiva. Exposure to conjunctiva to air as seen in marked degree of proptosis, facial palsy, ectropion, lack of blinking (as in coma), and lagophthalmos due to symblepharon. Epithelial xerosis occurs due to hypovitaminosis-A. Ref: Ophthalmology By Khurana, 4th edition, Page 84.