Efficacy and safety of topical cyclosporine 0.05% in vernal keratoconjunctivitis: Aggarwal Eye Hospital, Hyderabad

Abstract

Introduction: While corticosteroids are an effective choice of treatment for severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), their long-term use is restricted due to side effects. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical cyclosporine A (CsA) 0.05% in the treatment of VKC. Methods: A total of 40 patients with VKC that was resistant to topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and mast cell stabilizers were treated with topical CsA 0.05%. Patients were evaluated at weeks 4, 8, and 12 after the initiation of therapy. Symptoms and signs observed before and after treatment were recorded and scores were assigned. Scores were assigned to symptoms and indicators, as well as the requirement for topical corticosteroids and ocular side effects. Results: Symptoms and indicators were graded on a four-point scale from 0 to 3 for all patients. Each patient was given topical cyclosporine 0.05 percent emulsion (Restasis, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, India) four times a day, along with preservative-free artificial tears, and was followed for 12 weeks. The data was collected before the start of therapy (day 0) and at Weeks 4, 8, and 12 after treatment. The severity of all symptoms and indicators decreased statistically significantly (p<0.05) after 12 weeks of therapy. There were no significant side effects reported by the patients. Conclusion: Topical cyclosporine 0.05% emulsion treatment is a safe and effective treatment option for controlling the symptoms and signs of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in children.