Atopic dermatitis: a case report and current clinical review of systemic and ocular manifestations.
OBJECTIVE
Atopic dermatitis is a relatively common hereditary dermatologic condition. Ocular sequellae are commonly seen in this disorder and may include involvement of both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. Clinical symptoms and presentation may vary, as well as visual prognosis.


METHODS
A 48-year-old black woman came to us with a sudden exacerbation of atopic disease with ocular complications-most notably, the classic "shield-like" anterior subcapsular cataract seen in patients with this disease. Extensive diagnostic and management considerations specific to this disorder are highlighted.


RESULTS
A careful history and clinical examination will help direct appropriate diagnosis and management in this population. Although chronic in nature, acute exacerbations of the disease may require specific management. Proposed pathophysiologic mechanisms, including new aspects of treatment, are discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Ocular manifestations of atopic disease may be visually debilitating. Therefore, specific consideration relating to clinical course, effective diagnosis, and medical and surgical management of this disorder are discussed.
Illinois College of Optometry, Illinois Eye Institute, Chicago 60616, USA.
T M
TM
Brandonisio
J A
JA
Bachman
J M
JM
Sears
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002386:Cataract / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D003233:Conjunctivitis, Allergic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D015715:Corneal Edema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000150:complications*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009798:Ocular Hypertension / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D011239:Prednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D011379:Prognosis; D013999:Timolol / Q000008:administration & dosage; D014792:Visual Acuity
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; C009022:prednisolone phosphate; D013999:Timolol; D011239:Prednisolone