Incidence of keratopathy in vernal catarrh.

Abstract

Objective: To identify the severity and types of corneal complication of vernal catarrh and the extent of visual impairment caused by them. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Margalla Hospital Taxila Cantt. Period: March 2021 to May 2022. Methods: The study included all vernal catarrh cases with informed consent. Slit lamp inspection allowed for the exclusion of patients from the study. The majority of the diagnosis was made based on the history and lab tests. Slit lamp examination and corneal fluorescein staining were carried out in each case. The variables were noted and statistical analysis was performed on them. Inclusion Criteria: All patients between age of 5-20years of VKC were included. Exclusion Criteria: Patients who were difficult to examine on slit lamp or did not agree to informed consent were excluded. Results: The most frequent corneal complication was superficial punctate keratitis (45%). Cases with corneal plaques (8%) and shield ulcers (14% each) had more severe visual impairment. Also observed was a strong association with keratoconus (15%). Hydrops (6%), pseudogentoxon (3%) and corneal opacification (9% each) were also found. Conclusion: In VKC, corneal complications are frequent, potentially dangerous, and can impair vision.