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Exploring the Gut-Eye Axis: Microbial Dysbiosis in Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis
Alireza Peyman1, Mohsen Pourazizi1, Mohammad Kazemi2,3
1Isfahan Eye Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Cornea
|November 17, 2025
Summary
Gut microbial imbalances are linked to vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). This study found significant differences in gut bacteria between VKC patients and healthy individuals, suggesting potential new treatment avenues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a bilateral, itching, ocular allergic disease.
- The gut microbiota's role in allergic diseases is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gut microbiota composition in patients with VKC.
- To compare gut microbial profiles of VKC patients with healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study included 32 VKC patients and 16 healthy controls.
- Quantitative PCR analyzed fecal samples for Prevotella, Firmicutes, Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides.
- Clinical severity scores for VKC were recorded.
Main Results:
- VKC patients showed significant gut microbial dysbiosis compared to controls.
- Prevotella was upregulated (21.579-fold change; P <0.001) in VKC patients.
- Firmicutes, Faecalibacterium, and Bifidobacterium were downregulated (P < 0.01) in VKC patients.
Conclusions:
- Significant gut microbial imbalances are associated with VKC.
- Gut dysbiosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of VKC.
- Microbiota-targeted interventions like probiotics could be beneficial for VKC management.
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