Mahmooda Soni Wali, Zahid Jadoon, Inayat Ullah Khan.
Epidemic Kerato-Conjunctivitis (Changing Trends in the Management).
Ophthalmol Update Jan ;14(2):4-8.

Introduction: Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is a viral conjunctivitis caused by a group of adenoviruses of different serotypes. It is highly contagious and has a tendency to occur in epidemics. It has been reported worldwide, it causes intense inflammation, discomfort and visual morbidity in affected patients and is a public health issue. In this community outbreaks of EKC are observed every year from June to September. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of topical cyclosporine (0.05%) eye drops in comparison with topical steroids in the management of EKC. Materials & Methods: A randomized prospective clinical trial was conducted in the eye department of Govt. NBMH, in which 100 patients of EKC of all age groups in both genders, were included. They were divided into two groups. In group "A" the patients were treated with flouromethalone eye drops and lubricants. In group "B" patients were treated with cyclosporine (0.05%) eye drops and lubricants. Clinical signs and symptoms were recorded at the beginning of the treatment and at follow up visits at one week and three weeks after treatment. Results: The duration of therapy was three weeks. There was marked subjective as well as objective improvement in all cases. However patients on topical cyclosporine were comparatively, (Group B) more comfortable and showed a more rapid visual recovery as compared to patients on topical steroid therapy (Group A). No toxic effects of cyclosporine (0.05%) eye drops were observed. Follow up was conducted for longer in patients with residual sub-epithelial infiltrates (SEI) not resolved at three weeks and they were advised to continue the medication in tapering doses. Conclusion: The use of topical cyclosporine (0.05%) eye drops in patients with moderate to severe EKC is recommended as an effective and safe alternative to topical steroids.

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