Immunology of the eye

Abstract

The eye is one of the major targets of allergic disorders, accounting for over 20% of the conditions presenting to the allergist. It is also a major target organ of many systemic immunologic reactions (e.g., cytotoxic antibody mediated-cicatricial pemphigoid, immune complex or cell mediated-vasculitis, uveitis). The allergist/immunologist is uniquely trained to assist the ophthalmologist in the systemic immunologic evaluation and treatment of suspected hypersensitivity allergic and immunologic disorders.