[Non-allergic eosinophilic conjunctivitis]

Non-allergic eosinophilic conjunctivitis (NAEC) is a fairly common but poorly known ailment, often associated with dry eye syndrome. The majority of patients are middle-aged or elderly women. The symptoms are similar to those in allergic conjunctivitis, whereas atopic allergy cannot be found. Eosinophilic inflammation is first eased by instillation of glucocorticoid antibiotic eye drops, and the treatment is usually continued with mast cell stabilizer and moistening drops for a long time. Short courses of glucocorticoid drops and, sometimes, immunosuppressive medication of longer duration are required as additional therapies.