Managing and Treating Eye Allergies
By Dr. Liji Thomas, MD
Allergies of the eye may affect the conjunctiva, cornea or the eyelids. Clinical signs are important in diagnosing the type of allergy.
Additional tests, such as brush cytology of the ocular epithelium or tear mediator analysis, may help in doubtful cases.
Mechanisms of Damage During an Ocular Allergy
It is important to note that both Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and T-cell mediated hypersensitivity reactions are in play during an eye allergy. In addition, cytotoxic and inflammatory mediators are released in large quantities by massive eosinophil infiltration and activation.
Non-specific antigen recognition also plays a role in the allergic process. Thus adequate and intensive treatment is required to control the inflammation and prevent long-term damage to the eye.
The mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of eye allergies include:
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