The Five Stages of Stress
Menu
Keratoconjunctivitis is a medical term that describes the simultaneous inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) and conjunctiva (conjunctivitis). This condition can present in various forms, each with its unique causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly known as dry eye syndrome, is a prevalent condition, especially among the elderly and middle-aged women. It's primarily characterized by ocular irritation due to alterations in tear secretory processes.
Dry eye syndrome manifests through eye pain and burning, ocular hyperemia (red eyes), photophobia (light intolerance), blurred vision, and difficulty wearing contact lenses. In severe cases, the condition can lead to corneal ulcers, posing a risk of corneal perforation and extensive ocular superinfections.
This syndrome can be a symptom of severe conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that destroys lacrimal and other exocrine glands. It can also be a complication of allergic conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Certain environmental factors, such as low humidity, can also trigger dry eye syndrome.
Treatment options for keratoconjunctivitis sicca vary depending on the underlying cause. Topical antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, while antihistamine eye drops are employed for allergies. Artificial tears can be beneficial for those experiencing dry eyes due to low environmental humidity.
Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is primarily caused by an Adenovirus infection, which is also responsible for many viral respiratory tract infections.
This condition presents suddenly, with symptoms such as acute follicular conjunctivitis, hypertearing, severe eye redness, swollen preauricular lymph nodes, corneal inflammation, and conjunctival edema. Flu-like symptoms may precede these. While the symptoms can be bothersome, the condition usually resolves on its own within 2-3 weeks.
Treatment for epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is typically symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the symptoms. Artificial tears, analgesic eye drops, and cold compresses can provide relief. In severe cases, antiviral eye drops or ophthalmic ointments may be required. Topical corticosteroids are reserved for extremely serious cases.
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a seasonal allergic disorder often seen in patients with atopic diseases like asthma, hay fever, and eczema.
This condition manifests with symptoms like tearing, burning, perception of a foreign body in the eye, photophobia, ocular itching, and red eyes. It can also lead to painful corneal ulcers. Symptoms typically start before spring, peak during summer, and slowly regress during autumn and winter.
Antihistamine treatment is essential for controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Topical corticosteroid eye drops can provide a powerful anti-inflammatory action. Analgesic eye drops can also alleviate discomfort and burning.
Beyond the common forms of keratoconjunctivitis, several other types exist, though they occur less frequently.
This rare form of inflammation often occurs in young adults and is associated with disorders like eczema, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Symptoms include corneal and conjunctival inflammation, itching, abundant tearing, photophobia, altered vision, and mucous eye secretions. Treatment typically involves topical corticosteroids and ophthalmic ointments with a re-epithelizing action.
This condition is common among contact lens wearers. Symptoms include eye redness, conjunctival and corneal irritation, itching, and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can lead to corneal ulcers. The primary treatment is to replace contact lenses with eyeglasses to prevent further damage.