Management of severe allergic conjunctivitis with topical cyclosporin a 0.05% eyedrops

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of topical cyclosporin A 0.05% in the management of severe allergic conjunctivitis. METHODS: Seven patients with severe allergic conjunctivitis who were not responding to topical steroids, antihistamines, and mast cell stabilizers were given topical cyclosporin A 0.05%. All patients had an active disease when they were included in the study. Signs and symptoms were recorded before and after treatment. RESULTS: Seven patients, 6 boys and 1 girl, 6-14 years old, 6 with vernal keratoconjunctivitis and 1 with atopic keratoconjunctivitis, were enrolled in the study. Treatment with topical cyclosporin A 0.05% decreased the severity of symptoms and clinical signs significantly after 6 months (P < 0.05, Wilcoxon signed rank test). In addition, the need for steroids was reduced or even stopped. The patients experienced no side effects during the follow-up periods (mean, 14.0 +/- 2.1 months; range, 8-18 months). CONCLUSIONS: Topical cyclosporin A is an effective treatment in the management of severe allergic conjunctivitis with a benefit as a steroid-sparing agent.