Conjuctivochalasis - a review.

ABSTRACT

Conjunctivochalasis is an ocular condition that is usually missed, unless specifically looked for. It is defined as a redundant loose non edematous inferior bulbar conjunctiva. Though generally asymptomatic, It may also present as dryness and foreign body sensation. Various grading systems like Mirmura ((based on Lid-parallel conjunctival folds), Mellers (based on lid-parallel conjunctival folds, punctual occlusion and conjunctival fold changes during down gaze and digital pressure) and Zhang’s based on conjunctival folds, dryness, foreign body sensations, epiphora symptoms, punctual occlusion, tear meniscus height, tear film break-up time (BUT), and conjunctival fold changes during down gaze) system has been outlined. Various etiological aspects like dissolution of the Tenon’s Capsule and role of expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) has been dealt in detail. Different surgical approaches like pastepinch- cut conjunctivoplasty and their steps are specified. Conjunctivochalasis has to be understood in a wider depth and more research work is required to understand CCh in better detail so that preventive steps can be implemented with regard to secondary causes.