Bilateral pneumoblepharon/palpebral emphysema in Nigeria--a case report.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Bilateral pneumoblepharon or palpebral emphysema is an unusual presentation of tuberculosis which is a fairly common disease condition. METHOD: The case record of a four year old Nigerian female presenting with bilateral pneumoblepharon secondary to tuberculosis with a review of literature on the subject is presented. RESULT: Palpebral emphysema is one of the ocular complications of tuberculosis, which is not commonly reported in our environment. CONCLUSION: There is a need for the ophthalmologist to be more aware of the ocular complications of tuberculosis such as palpebral emphysema, in order to avoid misdiagnosis and to ensure proper treatment of this condition.