Atopy is a genetic tendency for your immune system to have an exaggerated response to a given allergen. Atopic disorders typically affect the eyes, nose, skin and lungs. Examples of such disorders include allergic conjunctivitis, atopic keratoconjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. For those with atopy, their chance of having more than one of these atopic diseases is increased due to the hereditary component.
For example, an estimated 25-40% of patients with atopic dermatitis also present with atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC). Long-term atopic dermatitis patients who develop eye symptoms later in life may in fact have AKC, so it is important that these patients prioritize their eye health. AKC is frequently associated with atopic dermatitis of the eyelids and skin around the eyes (i.e. redness/itching of eyelids, dry thickened skin, crusting), but other indicators include:
- Red, itchy eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Burning sensation
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Without an official diagnosis, it is easy to mistake AKC for seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis. However, if patients are aware of a predisposition to atopic disorders, they are better equipped to make the association between all of the symptoms they are experiencing and seek the care they need. The eye component of atopic disease often requires targeted therapy to effectively treat it, and it is best to have the eyes evaluated separately by a specialist (ophthalmologist) – especially in the case of AKC, which can be sight-threatening.