T-cell characterization in chronic allergic eye disease

Abstract

Chronic allergic eye disease encompasses several disorders, but it is vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) that have sight-threatening sequelae. T cells, eosinophils, and mast cells are all found in the conjunctiva, and are thought to play a role in disease pathogenesis. Recently, the conjunctival epithelium has also been considered to play a key role. New and effective therapeutic strategies for the future for these patients depend on achieving a greater understanding of the roles and interactions of the cell populations in these sight-threatening disorders.

Detection of Antigen‐Specific T Cells in Experimental Immune‐Mediated Blepharoconjunctivitis in DO11.10 T Cell Receptor Transgenic Mice

“…Each condition is characterized by a complex immunopathology with a mixed cellular infiltrate, and can not be explained by type 1 hypersensitivity alone. Recent studies have accumulated evidence for the involvement of T cell-mediated inflammation in the initiation and perpetuation of chronic AC (1,5,14,20,23). We also have investigated the role of T cells in EC (6,17,22).…”