Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis In Children

Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis is a chronic inflammatory eye disease of the ocular surface that is often underdiagnosed in children. This condition may impact visual acuity and in rare cases can cause corneal perforation and damage may occur leading to vision loss.

Symptoms for chronic blepharokeratoconjunctivitis may include chronic eyelid inflammation, recurrent meibomian cysts, conjunctivitis, scarring and perforation, the presence of tearing, photophobia, red eyes and keratitis to name a few.

Although recurrences are common, this condition may be successfully managed with a range of therapies including, eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, ointment, topical antibiotics, topical corticosteroids and systemic antibiotics. The prevalence of corneal damage may increase with delayed diagnosis.

Although the disease is similar in children and adults, the visual outcome is noticeably worse amongst children. Blepharoconjunctivitis in children is characterised by blepharitis with recurring episodes of conjunctivitis and keratopathy. Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis is a common reason for cornea referrals in children, however, the disease rarely progresses after age 8.

Adult blepharoconjunctivitis is seen to be more responsive to treatment than other forms of chronic blepharoconjunctivitis. The eye condition is also a lot more common among certain countries particularly in Asia and the Middle East.

If you notice any changes or differences in your child’s vision, it is important to see an ophthalmologist. Regular eye exams can identify any underlying eye conditions, this provides better chances for the management and treatment of eye problems.

Book a consultation to see how to best tackle your child’s eye condition. Call us or book a consultation online today

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About the expert

Mr Hamada | Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Surgeon

MD, MSc, DO (hons), FRCSEd, FRCOphth I am Samer, founder and consultant ophthalmic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience in ophthalmology. I am a world-renowned specialist in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. I’m not only a leading surgeon but also the only dual fellowship trained in corneal diseases in children from reputable institutions in the UK. At Eye Clinic London I work closely with other consultant ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists to achieve the best outcomes for our patients. Our main aim is to make sure our patients get the safest and best treatments available to them. We put your safety before anything else so you can rest assured that if you choose us you will be in the best and safest hands.