DR.NEHA SHILPY

Dr. RAJIV KUMAR GUPTA, Dr.Vivek Kumar, DR. SHUBHAM HARSH

Abstract

Aim: To compare efficacy of eye-drop (E/d) interferon (IFN) α-2b with eye-ointment (E/o) tacrolimus in refractory vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Methods: This prospective study included 28 patients with VKC refractory to conventional treatment. Group A received E/o tacrolimus 0.03% TDS and Group B received E/d IFN alpha-2b 1 millionIU/mL TDS. Total subjective symptom score (TSSS) and total objective ocular score (TOSS) were measured.

Results: Mean baseline TSSS was 6.98±1.56 in Group A and 7.11±1.67 in Group B; and 1.23±0.78 in Group A and 0.49±0.39 in Group B at 6 months (p<0.05 intergroup and intragroup). Mean baseline TOSS was 6.63±1.97 in Group A and 6.59±1.88 in Group B; and 1.38±0.81 in Group A and 1.02±0.77 in Group B at 6 months (p<0.05 intergroup and intragroup). Only Group A had side effects of stinging and burning. Conclusion: Both IFN α-2b 1 and tacrolimus are safe and effective in steroid-resistant VKC. IFN α-2b results in greater improvement and is better tolerated.

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