---
title: What is atopic keratoconjunctivitis?
description: "Atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) is a severe, chronic allergic eye disease associated with atopic dermatitis and often asthma or hay fever. ## Clinical Picture Patients experience year‑round itching, redness, mucous discharge, and eyelid skin changes such as thickening and fissuring. -…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-atopic-keratoconjunctivitis/"
updated: "2025-12-15"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is atopic keratoconjunctivitis?

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) is a severe, chronic allergic eye disease associated with atopic dermatitis and often asthma or hay fever.

## Clinical Picture

Patients experience year‑round itching, redness, mucous discharge, and eyelid skin changes such as thickening and fissuring.

- Conjunctival scarring, symblepharon, and peripheral corneal neovascularisation may develop over time.
- Cataract and retinal detachment risks are increased, partly from chronic inflammation and steroid use.
- Corneal ulcers and keratoconus are recognised complications.
- AKC typically presents in late adolescence or early adulthood and can persist for decades.

## Management

Treatment requires long‑term allergy and inflammation control with lubricants, topical antihistamines, mast‑cell stabilisers, and steroid‑sparing immunomodulators such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus.

- Short courses of topical steroids treat acute flares but must be monitored closely.
- Coordination with dermatology helps manage systemic atopy.
- Regular surveillance for glaucoma, cataract, and corneal disease is essential.
- Patient education on lid care and avoiding rubbing reduces mechanical damage.