Immunology of vernal keratoconjunctivitis

Abstract

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a bilateral seasonally occurring chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva especially in the adolescent boys, the pathogenesis of which includes a variety of genetic, climatic and environmental factors. The symptoms include itching, photophobia, watering and redness, ropy discharge which eventually lead to punctate epithelial erosions, shield ulcers over corneal and affects the vision and quality of life of young children. There are three types of VKC- palpebral, bulbar and mixed forms. The palpebral form has cobble stone papillae and congestion. The bulbar form shows horner tranta spots and pseudogerontoxon, while the mixed form has both. Several cells like histamines, IgE, chemokines, lymphokines play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this review was to review article of the multitude of cells and mediators that have a relevant role in VKC and the necessary treatment options targeted against the specific cells that may help in subsiding the disease process.