Vernal keratoconjunctivitis in the black child and its response to therapy.

A clinical study of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in black children in Southern Africa was conducted to report on the peculiar, predominantly limbal form of the disease, and to test its response to therapy. Pigmented and thickened limbal conjunctiva gave the disease its typical appearance. In severe cases these lesions were encroaching on to the cornea and threatened sight. Placebo had no effect on the course of the disease. Topical steroids and sodium cromoglycate were equally effective. A combination of steroids and SCG proved particularly effective in treating severe cases, indicating a possible synergistic effect of the 2 drugs.