Toxic Keratoconjunctivitis

Eye Contact Lens. 2018 Sep:44 Suppl 1:S8-S15. doi: 10.1097/ICL.0000000000000392.

Abstract

Toxic keratoconjunctivitis (TK) is an underrecognized complication of ophthalmic drug use and various environmental or occupational exposures. A detailed history and clinical examination are important to identify the offending agent(s). Common drug-related causes of TK include preservatives in ophthalmic medications, topical antimicrobials, and topical anesthetics. Alternatives to benzalkonium chloride as well as preservative-free formulations should be considered in patients requiring long-term topical medication. More advanced cases of TK may require preservative-free topical steroids and/or antibiotics, and occasionally surgical intervention. Early recognition and appropriate management of TK may help prevent permanent ocular and visual damage.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthetics / adverse effects
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / adverse effects
  • Antihypertensive Agents / adverse effects
  • Benzalkonium Compounds / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Keratoconjunctivitis / chemically induced*
  • Keratoconjunctivitis / physiopathology
  • Keratoconjunctivitis / therapy
  • Ophthalmic Solutions / adverse effects*
  • Preservatives, Pharmaceutical / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anesthetics
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Benzalkonium Compounds
  • Ophthalmic Solutions
  • Preservatives, Pharmaceutical