Surgical Treatment of Corneal Shield Ulcer in Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: A Systematic Review

Background: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) severely affects the quality of life affected patients. The development a shield ulcer is considered one most severe late-stage complications, which when untreated leads to irreversible vision loss. In this systematic review, we outlined results surgical treatments corneal ulcers in VKC. Methods: We searched 12 literature databases on 3 April 2023 for studies patients with VKC were treated by any treatment. Treatment reviewed qualitatively. Assessments risk bias individual made using Clinical Appraisal Skills Programme. Results: Ten 398 eligible qualitative review. Two categories approaches described: supratarsal corticosteroid injection and debridement or without amniotic membrane transplantation. Almost all experienced resolution improvement their ulcers, regardless treatment modality. Time healing was faster debridement. A small proportion recurrence side effects. Conclusions: Surgical seems highly effective, but careful post-operative follow-ups are necessary due potential