Limbal vernal kerato-conjunctivitis in Yaounde, Cameroon. A clinico-immunology study

Abstract

Limbal Vernal kerato-conjunctivitis is the 6th most frequent diagnosis in the Ophthalmology service of CHU, Yaounde, Cameroon, and accounts for 2.8% of all clinic consultations. Only grades I and II of the disease (Diallo's classification) are found in this forest zone of Africa. Advanced stages which may cause corneal blindness being probably due to absence of xerophthalmia in this part of Africa. Both sexes are equally affected. Association with other allergic diseases is very rare and there is no hereditary tendency. Serum and tear Immunoglobulin assays in patients and controls of the same parent-hood showed no statistical differences (P > 0.05). Mast cell immunocytological studies might be more rewarding. Relief of pruritus is best with sodium cromoglycate and Naaga. However, in severe cases interrupted systemic steroids (not exceeding one week each time) are utilized. Poor drug compliance, due to costs is frequent; probably cautious cryo application in severe cases, might together with infrequent Naaga or sodium cromoglycate, procure longer remissions.