Purpose of review: Ocular allergy is often encountered by allergists, ophthalmologists, pediatricians, and primary care physicians. An understanding of the immunologic mechanisms, the differential diagnosis, the clinical features, and the treatment of ocular allergy will be useful to all physicians who encounter these patients.
Recent findings: Basic and clinical research has provided a better understanding of the cells, mediators, and immunologic events which occur in ocular allergy. New pharmacological agents, including more potent mast cell stabilizers, and low-dose corticosteroids, have improved the efficacy and safety of ocular allergy treatment.
Summary: Physicians who currently treat ocular allergy have a greater familiarity with the signs and symptoms of allergic disease, a better understanding of the mechanisms and clinical features of allergic conjunctivitis, and improved therapeutic tools to deliver satisfactory outcomes in the management of ocular allergy.