Evaluation of Central Corneal Thickness in Patients with Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis using Topical Steroids

Purpose: To assess the changes in central corneal thickness (CCT) in patients with VKC using topical steroids. Methodology: A Qusai-Experimental study was conducted over six months at Sarwar eye care center in Lahore. A total of 34 VKC patients aged 5-25 years were recruited using purposive sampling. Patients underwent baseline evaluation, including history, symptom documentation, and CCT measurement via pachymetry. Topical steroids (e.g, dexamethasone/prednisolone) were prescribed based on disease severity. Follow-up CCT assessments were done at 1 and 3 months. VKC severity and treatment response were monitored throughout. Data were analyzed to assess CCT changes over time. Results: Among34 vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) patients (mean age: 16.26 years), the most common symptoms were itching with redness (29.4%), both steroids improved VKC severity, with Dexamethasone showing greater improvement (64.7%) compared to prednisolone (36.4%) by the third month. Central corneal thickness (CCT) decreased significantly in both groups; however, Dexamethasone caused a more pronounced thinning (OD:-33.8µm;OS:-30.12µm) then prednisolone (OD: -5.29µm ;OS: -5.99µm). Statistical test confirmed significant CCT changes over time (P<0.001) within and between groups, suggesting better anti-inflammatory efficacy of dexamethasone but a safer corneal profile with prednisolone. Conclusion: Prednisolone provides safer corneal outcomes with moderate clinical improvement, while dexamethasone is more prosperous in lowering the severity of VKC but results in considerable corneal thinning.