Updated June 08, 2015.

Severe Eye Allergies

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a disease mostly affecting children, most commonly occurring during puberty, and more frequently in boys. It is a severe form of eye allergies, affecting the inner lining of the upper eyelids. VKC tends to affect people of Asian and African descent most commonly.

What are the symptoms of VKC?

The symptoms of VKC are similar to those of allergic conjunctivitis, although eye itching is more severe, as is sensitivity to light, watery eyes and sensation of “something in the eye”.

There is frequently a whitish, stringy discharge from the eyes.
VKC occurs seasonally, frequently affecting people in the spring when the weather turns warm. People with VKC also commonly have seasonal allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and asthma.

The inner lining of the eyelids, or conjunctiva, are red and swollen, and may have thickened bumps called giant papillae. These are most frequently found under the upper eyelids in VKC.

What are the complications of VKC?

Because VKC affects other structures of the eye (not just the lining of the eyelids), such as the cornea, cataracts and glaucoma can occur, as well as ulcers on the cornea, which can result in blindness.

How is VKC diagnosed?

VKC is diagnosed in much the same way as allergic conjunctivitis, although the presence of more severe symptoms in a young child, with problems occurring mostly in the springtime, should be a clue of a more severe disease process. An ophthalmologist or optometrist may be needed to confirm the diagnosis of VKC, and assist the primary physician in the treatment of the patient.

How is VKC treated?

Treatment of VKC is very similar to the treatment of atopic conjunctivitis, although corticosteroids may be required more frequently in this disease.

An ophthalmologist or optometrist should monitor people using steroid eye drops for any prolonged period of time, as these medications can also lead to severe side effects (such as glaucoma and cataract formation).
<sub>Sources:

Ono SJ, Abelson MB. Allergic conjunctivitis: Update on pathophysiology and prospects for future treatment. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005; 115:118-22.

Bielory L. Allergic and Immunologic Disorders of the Eye. Part II: Ocular Allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2000; 106:1019-32.</sub>

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