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Symptoms of the various types of ocular allergic disorders can overlap during the induction phases of these diseases, making it difficult to appropriately diagnose these conditions. The underlying immune responses of ocular allergies are complex, indicating the critical need to understand the pathophysiology behind these diseases. Extensive research over the past several years has provided valuable insight into understanding the pathophysiology associated with the different forms of allergic conjunctivitis. Further clarification of the mechanisms associated with different forms of ocular allergy is essential to improve methods of classification, diagnosis, and treatment.
Andrea Keane-Myers, PhD, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 12441 Parklawn Drive, Twinbrook II Facility, Room 125, Rockville, MD 20852, USA Tel: +1 301 402 6572; fax: +1 301 402 7271; e-mail: [email protected]
AKC = atopic keratoconjunctivitis; GPC = giant papillary conjunctivitis; IgE = immunoglobulin E; IL = interleukin; PAC = perennial allergic conjunctivitis; SAC = seasonal allergic conjunctivitis; VKC = vernal keratoconjunctivitis.