Impact of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis on School Children in Egypt.

Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and its impact on school children in Egypt.

Methods: A total of 3,706 students from six randomly selected schools of Menoufia were included where 126 had symptoms according to the VKC related symptoms questionnaire. Selected children were referred to a hospital for further assessment.

Results: The mean age of included children was 8.79±31.87 years, with a VKC prevalence of 3.3%, and male-to-female ratio of 2.3:1. The most frequently reported symptoms were ocular itching, followed by burning sensation, tearing, red eye, discharge, and photophobia. Signs vary between mild and severe cases; however, all cases had a negative impact on school attendance and performance.

Conclusion: The prevalence of VKC differs according to the age group of included cases and the local temperature of the study area. School attendance, performance, lifestyle, and social activities were negatively affected by VKC.