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Open Access An algorithm for the management of allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis has been reported to be increasing in prevalence in the United States. It significantly impacts patient quality of life and reduces their productivity. It has been noted that nasal and ocular symptoms are equally bothersome in the majority of patients. Despite the development of new therapeutic interventions, ocular allergy is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. This article outlines current best practices regarding diagnosis and treatment of allergic conjunctivitis; suggests criteria for referral to a colleague with different expertise; and provides an algorithm for step recommendations including treatment with antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and immunotherapy.

Keywords: Allergic conjunctivitis; NSAID; antihistamine; corticosteroid; diagnosis; immunotherapy; mast cell stabilizers; ocular; quality of life; treatment

Document Type: Research Article

Affiliations: Department of Medicine, Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA

Publication date: 01 September 2013

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  • Allergy and Asthma Proceedings is a peer reviewed publication dedicated to distributing timely scientific research regarding advancements in the knowledge and practice of allergy, asthma and immunology. Its primary readership consists of allergists and pulmonologists.

    The goal of the Proceedings is to publish articles with a predominantly clinical focus which directly impact quality of care for patients with allergic disease and asthma and by having the potential to directly impact the quality of patient care. AAP welcomes the submission of original works including peer-reviewed original research and clinical trial results. Additionally, as the official journal of the Eastern Allergy Conference (EAC), AAP will publish content from EAC poster sessions as well as review articles derived from EAC lectures.

    Featured topics include asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, food allergies, allergic skin diseases, diagnostic techniques, allergens, and treatment modalities. Published material includes peer-reviewed original research, clinical trials and review articles.

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    The journal is indexed in Thomson Reuters Web of Science and Science Citation Index Expanded, plus the National Library of Medicine's PubMed service.
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