Prevalence and risk factors of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis among a Ghanaian clinical cohort: A case‐control study

Abstract

BackgroundVernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) has been determined to be highly prevalent in countries within the tropical climate region. However, little evidence from studies conducted within this region has been put forward to support this claim.AimTo determine the prevalence and risk factors of VKC among a Ghanaian clinical cohort.MethodsA 3‐year case‐control study was conducted in a tertiary eye care institution, and medical records of patients who had been diagnosed of VKC between 2018 and 2021 were reviewed.ResultsMedical records of 3800 patients were reviewed. Some cases of VKC were identified, with a population prevalence rate of . Males comprised of the population with VKC, with a male‐to‐female ratio of . The disease was more prevalent (40.8%) in children (17 years), and the overall odds of incidence decreased by 10% for a unit increase in age. Age and sex‐adjusted models revealed significant positive associations between Keratoconus [aOR = 40.760, 95% CI –5.948 to 339.937], Rhinitis [cOR = 5.183, 95% CI –2.074 to 12.022] and VKC. However, the incidence of VKC was relatively less expressive among pterygium cases [cOR = 0.315, 95% CI –0.077 to 0.846].ConclusionVKC is highly prevalent among children and is often associated with comorbidities of atopic origin that exacerbate the impact of the disease among this vulnerable population. It is imperative that clinicians provide holistic care for children with VKC.

Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis in Sudan and Its Impact on Visual Acuity

“…Additionally, corneal opacity and ulceration contributed to decreased visual acuity as part of the vicious cycle. A study conducted in the general population concluded that VKC is common among youngsters and is frequently related with atopic comorbidities [11] . As a result of our country's limited resources and disastrous war, most patients are unable to access health-care facilities.…”