GPAtlas🧭 When to suspect
Suspect allergic conjunctivitis in patients presenting with bilateral eye itching (the hallmark symptom), redness, watering, and sometimes a stringy or mucous discharge. Symptoms are often associated with a personal or family history of atopy, such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, or eczema.
Classification depends on the pattern of exposure and chronicity. Always be alert to rare, severe forms that are potentially sight-threatening and require specialist management.
| Classification | Classic presentation and triggers |
|---|---|
| Seasonal (SAC) | Usually triggered by pollens; symptoms are notably worse in the spring and summer months. |
| Perennial (PAC) | Triggered by indoor allergens such as house dust mites, animal dander, or moulds; year-round symptoms. |
| Contact dermatoconjunctivitis | Triggered by direct application of cosmetics, eye drops (often the preservatives), or chemicals. |
| Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) | Strongly associated with contact lens use, poor lens hygiene, or exposed surgical sutures. |
| Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) | Typically affects young men in hot climates; features intense itching and thick mucus. Sight-threatening. |
| Atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) | Typically affects older men with eczema; features dry eyes, corneal scarring, and severe visual impairment. |
Source: NICE · BMJ · DermNet
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🔒 History🔒 Red Flags🔒 Examination🔒 Patient Explanation🔒 Investigations🔒 Management🔒 Non-pharmacological Treatment🔒 Pharmacological Treatment🔒 Special Notes🔒 Referral Pathways🔒 Take Home Messages
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