Therapeutic Effects of 0.1% Tacrolimus Eye Drops for Refractory Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Background: To investigate the efficacy of topical 0.1% tacrolimus in treating refractory vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Material and Methods: This prospective study included 20 patients with refractory VKC. Patients having refractory VKC were started with topical 0.1% tacrolimus eye drop twice daily. Changes in subjective symptoms and objective signs after treatment were evaluated. Results: Total signs and symptoms score significantly decreased after 1 month of treatment (p<0.001). The drug proved effective in treating refractory cases of VKC and also helped in weaning the patients from steroid therapy. No significant and hazardous adverse drug reactions were noticed in the study participants during the study period, so making the tacrolimus 0.1% eye drops safe for use in vernal keratoconjunctivitis patients in twice a daily doses. Conclusion: Topical 0.1% tacrolimus eye drop seemed to be a safe and effective treatment for steroid-resistant refractory VKC.