Ulcerative keratitis in mycosis fungoides.

PURPOSE: To present a case of ulcerative keratitis and impending corneal perforation in a patient with mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma) that developed eyelid involvement.

METHODS: Case report analysis. Cultures and biopsies of the right cornea, conjunctiva, and eyelids were obtained. Biopsy tissue was examined with histologic and immunohistologic stains.

RESULTS: This patient with mycosis fungoides involving the eyelids developed corneal exposure and bacterial keratitis with impending corneal perforation. Lamellar keratoplasty and permanent tarsorrhaphy were performed to protect the globe from perforation.

DISCUSSION: Mycosis fungoides involving the eyelids is capable of causing severe ocular tissue injury without direct infiltration of the malignant lymphocytes. Preventative medical and surgical measures must be taken to protect the globe.