Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

Abstract

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic allergic conjunctivitis that is most often seen in young, males. Although most types of allergic conjunctivitis do not affect vision, VKC is unusual in that damage to the cornea from the condition can result in vision loss. Although it is typically seasonal, year-round symptoms can be seen, which can lead to uncertain diagnoses being made. Although the pathophysiology of VKC is better understood in recent years, allowing more targeted therapies, management of these patients can still be very challenging, and complications can occur. As such, aggressive management of VKC is necessary, especially since vision loss in the amblyogenic age range can be permanent.

Keywords: allergic conjunctivitis; inflammation; vernal keratoconjunctivitis.

Figure 1

Ten-year-old boy with vernal keratoconjunctivitis demonstrating superior palpebral conjunctiva with giant papillae within an intensely inflamed conjunctiva and shield ulcer in the cornea with fluorescein staining. (Courtesy of Todd P. Margolis, MD, PhD).