Abstract:Background: Recurrent bilateral allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea is known as vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). In hot, arid climates like the Indian subcontinent, it is more common. Mast cell stabilizers and antihistaminics are the first line treatments for VKC. Corticosteroids are used in severe situations. Nevertheless, immunomodulators have been utilized in place of corticosteroids due to the significant adverse effects of steroids. Determining the topical 0.03% tacrolimus's clinical effectiveness as the only treatment for VKC is the goal of this investigation.
Material and Methods: Fifty VKC patients were chosen and split into two smaller groups.
Group A: Where by tear drops were used as a placebo and 0.03% tacrolimus ointment was given twice daily.
Group B: Where by 0.03% tacrolimus ointment and 0.1% olapatadine ophthalmic solution were used twice a day. Before starting treatment, each patient was checked under a slit lamp, and their symptoms and signs were assessed on a scale of 0 to 3 on days 7, 30, and 90. The outcomes between the two groups were compared using the student's T-test for independent sample.
Results: On days 7, 30, and 90, there is a notable decrease in the group's signs (Conjunctival hyperaemia, tarsal papillary response, punctuate epithelial keratitis, limbal gelatinous infilterate) and symptoms (Itching, tearing, foreign body feeling, photophobia, discharge). (p<0.05)
Conclusion: When treating VKC patients who are not responding to traditional medication, both the solo use of tacrolimus and the combination of tacrolimus and olopatadine had comparable effectiveness in lowering clinical symptoms and signs.
