Optimizing Refractive Outcomes in the Presence of Ocular Allergy—Toward a Comprehensive Approach to Ocular Surface Health

Abstract

Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis are common conditions which, along with dry eye and other inflammatory disorders of the ocular surface, may present an underlying management challenge in refractive surgery. Optimizing the condition and health of the ocular surface is essential in contact lens wearers, refractive surgical candidates, and post-surgical patients alike. Achieving an optimal ocular surface demands a comprehensive understanding of ocular allergy and related ocular surface conditions, as well as a proactive therapeutic approach. Although ocular allergy has often been implicated in contact lens intolerance, research has now begun to document the potential impact of allergic conjunctivitis on refractive surgical outcomes as well. Additional studies are needed to understand the relationship of allergic conjunctivitis to concomitant ocular surface disease and long-term ocular surface health. Further investigation of the potential benefit of better management of chronic episodic ocular surface inflammation, particularly in refractive surgery, will assist with the identification of optimal therapies.