What is vernal catarrh?

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a seasonally recurring, bilateral, and severe form of allergic inflammation affecting the ocular surface. This relatively uncommon type of allergic eye disease can cause severe damage to the ocular surface, leading to corneal scarring and vision loss if not treated properly.

What type of hypersensitivity is VKC?

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a bilateral chronic and often severe allergic conjunctivitis. For many years, VKC was considered a classic type I hypersensitivity reaction (soley IgE-mediated) with an immunopathogenetic mechanism similar to seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (see Ch. 176).

How is vernal keratoconjunctivitis diagnosed?

There are not any established diagnostic criteria or lab tests to diagnose vernal conjunctivitis. A doctor can usually diagnose vernal conjunctivitis by asking about your medical history and examining your eye.

How do you treat vernal conjunctivitis?

Treatment

  1. Antihistamine or anti-inflammatory drops that are placed into the eye.
  2. Eye drops that prevent a type of white blood cell called mast cells from releasing histamine (may help prevent future attacks)
  3. Mild steroids that are applied directly to the surface of the eye (for severe reactions)

What causes vernal keratoconjunctivitis?

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic, non-contagious allergic disorder with seasonal recurrences usually appearing during the spring or warm weather. VKC is caused by a hypersensitivity to airborne-allergens. It usually affects younger members of the population, ages 3-25 and most patients are males.

What is the difference between conjunctivitis and keratoconjunctivitis?

Keratoconjunctivitis is when you have both keratitis and conjunctivitis at the same time. Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea, the clear dome that covers the iris and the pupil. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva.

What causes keratoconjunctivitis?

Keratoconjunctivitis is a group of inflammatory eye conditions involving the cornea and the conjunctiva. Allergies, viruses, and bacteria are among the causes. Some types are associated with congenital or autoimmune disorders. There are steps you can take to relieve symptoms.

What types of conjunctivitis are there?

There are three main types of conjunctivitis: allergic, infectious and chemical. The cause of conjunctivitis varies depending on the type.