International Journal of Clinical Science and Medical Research

Purpose: To study the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of steroid-induced glaucoma (SIG) occurring during vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Methods: Retrospective descriptive study including 20 patients followed for VKC complicated by ocular hypertension secondary to topical corticosteroid use.

Results: The mean age was 13.5 years (range 8–20) with a marked male predominance (85%). Steroid-induced hypertension occurred after an average of 6.5 months of instillation. The corticosteroids involved were dexamethasone (70%) and fluorometholone (30%). Visual acuity was reduced in 35% of cases. Glaucoma was confirmed in 8 cases (40%), while 12 (60%) presented with reversible ocular hypertension. All patients received topical hypotensive treatment, and 3 required trabeculectomy. The evolution was favorable in 90% of cases after corticosteroid withdrawal and replacement by non-steroidal therapy.

Conclusion: Steroid-induced glaucoma is a serious but preventable complication of VKC. Patient education and regular intraocular pressure monitoring are essential to prevent irreversible visual loss.

Steroid-induced glaucoma; Vernal keratoconjunctivitis; Topical corticosteroids; Ocular hypertension; Children; Prevention

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