FREQUENCY OF SHIELD ULCER IN PATIENTS HAVING VERNAL KERATOCONJUNCTIVITIS.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of shield ulcer as corneal complication occurring as a result of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis
and its effect on vision.
INTRODUCTION: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a recurrent, bilateral, allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva and
cornea. Shield ulcer is a visual threatening complication of vernal keratoconjunctivitis.
METHODOLGY: This Cross sectional study was conducted on patients suffering from vernal keratoconjunctivitis from
25th April 2009 to 26th dec 2009 in OPD, Eye Department, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Non probability consecutive
sampling technique was used.
RESULTS: Out of 95 patients of VKC, shield ulcer was noted in 11 cases. Grade 2 ulcer in 07 patients, grade 1 in 03,
while grade 03 in 01patient.
Conclusion: It concludes that VKC is a common ocular condition, and commonly seen in young boys. Shield ulcer is
one of its serious complications. Grade 2 shield ulcer is the most common type.
Key words: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis, Shield ulcer, Visual acuity.