Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome

Parinaud's Oculoglandular Syndrome

Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is a rare medical condition characterized by a combination of conjunctivitis and lymphadenopathy. It is named after the French ophthalmologist Henri Parinaud, who first described the syndrome.

Etiology

Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is most commonly caused by Bartonella henselae, the bacterium responsible for cat scratch disease. Other infectious agents that can cause this syndrome include Francisella tularensis (the causative agent of tularemia), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the causative agent of tuberculosis), and certain viruses.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome typically present with unilateral conjunctivitis, which may be accompanied by granuloma formation on the conjunctiva. Additionally, there is often ipsilateral preauricular lymphadenopathy or submandibular lymphadenopathy. Other symptoms may include fever, malaise, and ocular pain.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic signs and symptoms. Serological tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays can be used to identify the causative organism. Histopathological examination of conjunctival biopsy specimens may reveal granulomatous inflammation.

Treatment

Treatment of Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome depends on the underlying cause. For infections caused by Bartonella henselae, antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline are commonly used. In cases caused by Francisella tularensis, streptomycin or gentamicin may be administered. Supportive care, including analgesics and antipyretics, can help alleviate symptoms.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is generally good, especially with appropriate antibiotic treatment. Most patients recover fully without long-term complications.

Related Pages

• Conjunctivitis
• Lymphadenopathy
• Cat scratch disease
• Tularemia
• Tuberculosis
• Granuloma