Ocular allergy: From clinical approach to treatment; [Alergia ocular: Da abordagem clínica ao tratamento]

Abstract

Ocular allergy encompasses a spectrum of pathologies mediated by hypersensitivity mechanisms that affect the ocular surface. Ocular symptoms and signs such as itching or conjunctival hyperemia are often underestimated and undertreated despite their impact on quality of life. Ocular allergy encompasses different clinical entities differentiated by their underlying patho-physiological mechanism and clinical presentation. Regarding diagnosis, the clinical history and physical examination are es-sential, with the investigation of a possible allergic sensitization through in vivo and in vitro tests and/or specific provocation tests. Treatment should be guided by clinical severity, and includes non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures and, in selected cases, allergen immunotherapy. This review aims to present the current multidisciplinary clinical approach to ocular allergy, focusing on its pathophysiology, classification, diagnosis and therapeutic approaches. © 2024 Sociedade Portuguesa de Alergologia e Imunologia Clínica.