This site uses tracking information. Visit our privacy policy. Click to agree to this policy and not see this again.

Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

Palpebral vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC)

Palpebral vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC)

Category(ies): Cornea, External Disease
Contributor: Jesse Vislisel, MD
Photographer: Brice Critser, CRA

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a seasonal disorder, predominantly seen in male children with a history of atopy. It results in inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva.

There are two subtypes of VKC, palpebral and limbal. Palpebral VKC primarily involves the palpebral conjunctiva, resulting in diffuse papillary hypertrophy most prominent on the upper lid. In severe cases, as seen in the top photograph, cobblestone-like giant papillae can form on the upper tarsus. Corneal changes may be associated with the tarsal lesions including superior pannus and superior or central "shield ulcers," as seen in the bottom photograph.

Cobblestone-like giant papillae can form on the upper tarsus
Cobblestone-like giant papillae can form on the upper tarsus
tarsal lesions including superior pannus and superior or central
Corneal changes may be associated with the tarsal lesions including superior pannus and superior or central "shield ulcers"