Management of ocular allergy

Abstract

Objective: Ocular allergy is a frequent accompaniment of systemic allergy and in some situations ocular signs and symptoms are the most prominent features of allergic disease. This paper will describe an approach to ocular allergy intended to aid in the recognition, differentiation from other ocular conditions, and management of ocular allergic disease.

Data sources: Ophthalmologists and allergists have contributed to the body of knowledge concerning ocular allergy during the last several decades. Recent investigations have provided better and more specific treatments for the safe and effective management of ocular allergy.

Study selection: The results of several review articles, investigation of certain aspects of ocular allergy, and clinical trials have contributed to the approach that ophthalmologists and allergists take in the diagnosis and management of ocular allergy.

Results: In most cases, it is not difficult to recognize ocular allergy because of its association with systemic allergy. On the other hand, numerous inflammatory ocular conditions can be confused with ocular allergy. It is important to recognize infectious ocular disease and severe ocular inflammatory disease, such as uveitis, to ensure appropriate treatment.

Conclusions: Allergists and ophthalmologists should be able to recognize ocular allergy and distinguish it from other ocular inflammatory conditions. Most ocular allergy is mild and easily managed. Currently available medications allow for the safe and effective management of most cases of ocular allergy. Many situations can be managed with avoidance of allergens, supportive treatment such as cold compresses, or no treatment at all. It is rare that ocular allergy requires treatment with topical corticosteroids. When such severe circumstances occur, an ophthalmologist should monitor the intraocular pressure and the overall course of the ocular disease.