Allergic Eye Disease

Eye Allergies or Allergic Eye Diseases have increased dramatically all around the world in the last few years.

Eye Allergy is also called as Allergic Conjunctivitis.

They usually occur when the eyes respond to something that irritates them (allergen).

Allergic Conjunctivitis can be seasonal or perennial  ( all year round). 

Another severe form of Allergic Conjunctivitis which we see fairly commonly  in India is Vernal KeratoConjunctivitis.( VKC)

Eye Allergy showing the papillary reaction under the upperlids
Pic 1: Allergic Conjunctivitis clinical picture showing the tarsal papillary reaction under the eye lids.
Pic 2: Allergic Conjunctivitis showing the mucus deposits (in green) and papillary reaction under the lids. ( Same eye as in Pic 1, in a special cobalt blue filter light with fluorescein staining)

Vernal Kerato Conjunctivitis

Vernal Kerato Conjunctivitis ( VKC) is a more severe and chronic form of Allergic Conjunctivitis and needs long term care.

It is commonly seen in India at a younger age , some children as young as 5 years may also be affected , its usually more common in males.

Severe rubbing and allergy can lead to changes in cornea in form of Punctate Keratitis, Shield Ulcers, Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency, Keratoconus etc.

Large Cobblestone Papillae on the tarsal conjunctiva cause a rubbing effect on the cornea which is further amplified by the child’s rubbing of eyes.

For VKC patients we attempt to nurture a close and directed partnership with parents as it is very disturbing for the parents to see their child suffering everyday.

Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis VKC with Horner Trantas spots T, tarsal Papillae and Cupids bow
Clinical Picture of Vernal Kerato Conjunctivitis