Patient Casebook Series: Ligneous Conjunctivitis -- Identifying and Treating a Rare Disease

Follow the journey of a patient with PLGD-1, along with general insights on this disorder from Angela Y. Zhu, MD.

Ophthalmology Management January 1, 2026

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Ligneous conjunctivitis is the primary manifestation of plasminogen deficiency type 1 (PLGD-1), affecting 81% of patients with ocular involvement.
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PLGD-1 is characterized by ligneous lesions on mucosal membranes, which can lead to serious complications like vision impairment and organ failure.
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RYPLAZIM is the first FDA-approved treatment for PLGD-1, showing significant efficacy with 78% of lesions resolving completely by week 48 in clinical trials.
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Persistent lesions unresponsive to standard treatments should prompt testing for PLGD-1, as early diagnosis is crucial for preventing severe complications.
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The patient case illustrates the challenges in diagnosing and managing PLGD-1, highlighting the importance of timely treatment to improve quality of life.

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