J Korean Med Assoc.  2017 Mar;60(3):251-256. 10.5124/jkma.2017.60.3.251.

Pathogenesis of allergic conjunctivitis and trends in its treatment

• Hwang H

• KMID: 2374386
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2017.60.3.251

Abstract

Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by specific immunologic responses known as type 1 hypersensitivity, resulting in corneal and conjunctival inflammation. Histamine plays an important role in the pathophysiologic mechanism of allergic conjunctivitis. Five subtypes of allergic conjunctivitis have been defined according to specific signs and symptoms: seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, perennial allergic conjunctivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, atopic keratoconjunctivitis and giant papillary conjunctivitis. Above all, avoidance of the offending antigen is the primary behavioral modification used to treat all types of allergic conjunctivitis. However, this may be difficult for practical reasons; therefore, a range of medical treatment options, such as topical antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids are prescribed in clinical practice.

Keyword

Conjunctivitis, allergic; Type 1 hypersensitivity; Histamine

MeSH Terms

Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Conjunctivitis, Allergic*
Histamine
Histamine Antagonists
Hypersensitivity
Inflammation
Keratoconjunctivitis
Mast Cells
Seasons
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Histamine
Histamine Antagonists

Figure

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  Figure 1 Horner-Trantas dot in vernal keratoconjuntivitis.

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  Figure 2 Corneal shield ulcer in vernal keratoconjuntivitis.

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