Ocular Symptoms Can Also Be A Sign of Eczema

Many eye changes may be seen in association with atopic dermatitis. A Dennie-Morgan fold is a fold of skin under the lower eyelid. It is often seen in atopic dermatitis but may also be seen independent of atopic dermatitis and is of no significance to the overall health of the person.

Conjunctival irritation is also common. It may be due to an allergic reaction, as in hayfever, or an irritant contact response.

Keratoconus (conical-shaped eyeball) is a rare condition which is occasionally associated with atopic dermatitis. It is due to degeneration and weakening of the cornea (the front of the eye) which results in pushing of the front of the eye outwards due to the normal pressure within the eyeball. It can result in marked visual disturbances and can be partially corrected by contact lenses. Onset of keratoconus is after childhood and progression is usually self-limited.

Cataracts can also occur in association with severe atopic dermatitis, usually around 15-25 years of age. They are almost always bilateral and may have a characteristic appearance on eye examination which helps distinguish them from other causes of cataract.

Retinal detachment is when part of the inner eye lining breaks away from the underlying structures. This is a very rare complication seen in association with atopic dermatitis.