Mucus fishing syndrome is a rare condition caused by repeated self damage to the
conjunctiva
The conjunctiva is a thin mucous membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the sclera (the white of the eye). It is composed of non-keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium with goblet cells, stratified columnar epithelium ...
.
The condition causes excessive
mucus
Mucus ( ) is a slippery aqueous secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes. It is typically produced from cells found in mucous glands, although it may also originate from mixed glands, which contain both serous and mucous cells. It is ...
production. Patients with this condition make their condition worse by removing mucus from their eyes.
Causes
The condition often starts due to other untreated conditions.
Patients with
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC, also Spring catarrh, Vernal catarrh or Warm weather conjunctivitis) is a recurrent, bilateral, and self-limiting type of conjunctivitis (pink eye) having a periodic seasonal incidence.
Vernal keratopathy
Corneal ...
may develop this condition due to irritation from the mucus thread.
Diagnosis
The condition is hard to diagnose because the patient may not admit to it due to embarrassment and shame.
Doctors may find signs of damage at the surface of the eye due to self inflicted trauma.
Treatment
Treatment for this condition requires treatment of the underlying condition.
Patients should be told to refrain from rubbing or removing mucus from their eyes. Patients are also given treatment for their underlying conjunctival disorder. Lubrication and topical
acetylcysteine
Acetylcysteine, also known as ''N''-acetylcysteine (NAC), is a medication that is used to treat paracetamol overdose and to loosen thick mucus in individuals with chronic bronchopulmonary disorders like pneumonia and bronchitis. It has been used ...
are also a requirement.
References
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Disorders of conjunctiva