Unpacking VKC: How gender and age shape the clinical picture

• DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_177_25
• Publication Date: 2025-03-30T13:02:14Z
• Authors: Gaurav Chauhan; Suhita Mathimaaran; Ambika Chandrasekar; Varsha B Chavda; R Mugundhan; Bhaskar Srinivasan; Geetha Iyer; Murlidhar Rajagop...; Shweta Agarwal
• Keywords: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

To investigate gender differences in childhood- and adult-onset vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), as well the variations between these onset groups. This was a retrospective, observational study (Jan 2015-Dec 2020). Electronic medical records of VKC patients managed by cornea specialists were analyzed based on their age (<16 years for childhood [C-VKC], >16 adult [A-VKC]) gender. Out 1018 patients, 931 had 87 onset. Both groups showed male predominance; however, it slightly less A-VKC, with mean follow-up 28.6 ± 36.2 25.03 40.3 months C-VKC respectively. A family history allergies observed only C-VKC, no differences. Asthma more common while skin prevalent A-VKC. Mixed Grade 4 severity most both groups, C-VKC; limbal variant females The proportion A-VKC who developed complications similar (P value 0.85). However, group significantly higher number multiple 0.0076) those requiring surgical intervention 0.02). Keratoconus complication but stem cell deficiency across genders. Adult-onset is distinct condition minor milder course compared to childhood-onset VKC. Notably, there are significant gender-based its clinical presentation or complications.