DISEASES OF THE CONJUNCTIVA 79 



colleria are beneficial. If persistent they may be ex- 

 cised. 



Tuberculosis of the Conjunctiva.— This appears ordi- 

 narily in the form of ulcers in the palpebral conjunctiva, 

 though it may spread to the conjunctiva of the globe 

 and even to the cornea. The ulcerated surfaces are 

 covered with grayish-red granulations, about which 

 are numerous nodules. The whole Hd becomes affected 

 in severe cases. 



The disease may be primary and only affect one eye, 

 though it often accompanies or leads to general infection. 

 The neighboring lymphatics are usually involved. The 

 cause is local infection, and it is nearly always confined 

 to the young. 



Excision of the ulcers, followed by the use of the 

 actual cautery, is the best treatment. Iodoform, in 

 powder or ointment, is of value, and good results have 

 followed the injection of tuberculin. 



Pterygium— This is an encroachment of the con- 

 junctiva of the globe upon the cornea. Its usual site is 

 at the inner margin. It may be unilateral or bilateral. 

 The growth extends in some cases over the pupillary 

 area. It is said to arise from a pinguecula and expo- 

 sure to strong winds. 



As a rule it is not inconvenient, unless it has made 

 much progress over the cornea, when symptoms of irri- 

 tation and traction occur. The vascularity and thicken- 

 ing of the tissue are usually great, though in some cases 



