Persistent conjunctivitis associated with drinking arsenic-contaminated water.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to report on 2 cases of bilateral chronic conjunctivitis that were associated with the drinking of arsenic-contaminated underground water for a long time. Design: Interventional case reports comprised the study. Methods: This study was a review of clinical data and laboratory investigations. Results: Papillary conjunctivitis developed in 2 members of a family who has been drinking underground water for 15 years. There were severe dermatological changes, including hyperkeratosis, on palms and soles, hypo- and hyperpigmented lesions (rain-drop) on the abdomen, chest, and back. Arsenic levels estimated in the nails and hair of both patients were very high. The arsenic level of the drinking water was above the permissible limit. Histopathological examination of conjunctival tissue confirmed the inflammatory response of a papillary type; however, an arsenic estimation in conjunctival tissue was not possible. There were no inclusions of bodies in conjunctival smears stained wi...