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Ocular Manifestations in Children with Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Capobianco M, Zeppieri M, Gagliano G, Visalli F, D'Esposito F, Foti R, Cannizzaro L, Tognetto D et al.

Children (Basel, Switzerland), 2025

1 citation

Abstract

Background: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic, recurrent, and frequently severe allergic ocular condition predominantly impacting children and adolescents in tropical and subtropical areas. It profoundly affects patients' quality of life owing to its chronic symptoms and possible vision-threatening effects. Notwithstanding progress in comprehending VKC, its ocular symptoms and therapeutic approaches necessitate ongoing assessment.

Aims: This review summarizes the main factors to consider when diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with VKC based on the current literature in this field.

Methods: This comprehensive review examined peer-reviewed literature from 2010 to 2024 obtained from PubMed. The selection criteria encompassed research addressing the clinical presentation, diagnostic difficulties, and therapy of visual symptoms in pediatric patients with VKC. The publications chosen were those focusing on those that elucidate the pathophysiology, consequences, and innovations in treatment methodologies.

Results: The ocular manifestations of VKC are varied and characterized by prominent symptoms such as severe itching, photophobia, lacrimation, and a viscous mucoid discharge. Clinical manifestations range from conjunctival hyperemia and limbal thickening to severe consequences that jeopardize vision, including shield ulcers and keratoconus. Improvements in imaging techniques such as anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and in vivo confocal…

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