Atopic Eye Disease — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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ModerateInflammatory DermatosesAtopic Eye DiseaseSCE Dermatology

A 30-year-old woman with atopic eczema has periorbital eczema. Her dermatologist is concerned about a rare but serious ocular complication associated with severe periorbital AD. What ocular complication is associated with atopic eczema?

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Correct answer: A — Anterior subcapsular cataracts (atopic cataracts), keratoconjunctivitis, and keratoconus

Atopic eczema is associated with several ocular complications: (1) Anterior subcapsular cataracts ('atopic cataracts') — shield-shaped opacities in the anterior lens capsule, occurring in up to 10% of severe AD patients; (2) Keratoconjunctivitis (chronic itchy red eyes with papillary conjunctival reaction — may be allergic or atopic); (3) Keratoconus (conical protrusion of the cornea, possibly from chronic eye rubbing); (4) Blepharitis (eyelid margin inflammation); (5) Retinal detachment (rare, associated with eye rubbing). These complications underscore the importance of ophthalmological assessment in patients with severe periorbital AD. Topical corticosteroid use around the eyes also carries risks of steroid-induced glaucoma and posterior subcapsular cataracts.

Reference: NICE CG57; BAD AD Guidelines