Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a recurring inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually in both eyes, that may damage the surface of the cornea. Because the condition is typically caused by allergies, it tends to recur in the spring and summer. In one form of the condition, the conjunctiva under the upper lids is most affected, becoming swollen and pale pink to grayish, while the rest of the conjunctiva becomes milky white. In another form, the conjunctiva covering the eyeball is thick and grayish. Sometimes a small area of the cornea is damaged, causing pain and extreme sensitivity to light.
All symptoms usually disappear in cold weather and become milder over the years.
Antiallergy eyedrops such as cromolyn, lodoxamide, ketorolac, and levocabastine are the safest treatments. Oral antihistamines may also help. Corticosteroids are more potent but shouldn't be used for more than a few weeks without close monitoring because increased pressure in the eyes, cataracts, and opportunistic infections may result. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a long-standing dryness of both eyes leading to dehydration of the conjunctiva and cornea. Whether accompanying these diseases or occurring alone, dry eyes are most common in adult women.