Eye-related conditions can be divided into those that are allergy-based, and those that are nonallergic. A physician must distinguish between the two to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe an effective treatment plan.

Allergic eye-related conditions that affect children include:

• Allergic conjunctivitis. This is a hypersensitivity of the eye to certain allergens that may be seasonal or perennial (occurring throughout the year).
  

  

• Vernal conjunctivitis. An eye allergy that affects children far more than adults. This is a condition that arises in the spring and summer and occurs at least twice as often in males as it does in females. It is suspected that allergies trigger the condition.
  
  Vernal conjunctivitis tends to flare in the spring and fall in dry, warm climates, but lasts year-round in some children. It usually disappears during puberty.

Nonallergic eye-related conditions that may affect children include:

• Giant papillary conjunctivitis. Results from eye contact with a foreign surface, usually contact lenses.
  
  
• Atopic keratoconjunctivitis. Frequently occurs in patients with eczema. Left untreated, it can lead to the formation of cataracts (a clouding of the lens of the eye) and, eventually, blindness unless removed surgically. This can affect children, but usually affects those ages 20 to 50.
  
  
• Infectious conjunctivitis. Commonly known as “pink eye,” it is the result of a bacterial or viral infection. It is commonly found in children and usually does not present a major health threat.
  
  
• Blepharitis. An infection of the eyelids that can cause a prolonged inflammatory response when combined with the overuse of eye drops. Most often affects adults, but can affect children, too.
  
  
• Uveitis. Potentially sight-threatening swelling that may involve some or all inflammatory processes of the middle layers of the eye, also called the uveal tract or uvea. Usually affects adults, but the risk of blindness increases in children who have uveitis.
  
  
• Kawasaki disease. An inflammation of the blood vessels in the body, including the eyes. This affects children exclusively.