Learn more about New Treatment Options for Allergic Conjunctivitis with Dr. Justin Schweitzer

Hello! Welcome to Woo’s Wisdom.

In our recent webinar titled, “New Treatment Options for Allergic Conjunctivitis”. Dr. Justin Schweitzer discussed the diagnosis of different types of allergic complications in the eye and the treatment options that are available for this specific type of diseases, both existing and brand new.

We all know that itching is a hallmark symptom of ocular allergies, but did you know there’s a significant risk of developing keratoconus with chronic allergic conjunctivitis?

A study out of Korea found that there was a 37% higher chance of developing keratoconus if there was a diagnosis of allergic conjunctivitis due to rubbing of the eyes.

90% of what we deal with is seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and perennial allergic conjunctivitis, So Dr. Schweitzer discussed these in-depth, along with the best treatment protocols for these patients.

Dr. Schweitzer discussed a new FDA approved treatment indicated for ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis, which is a dexamethasone infused intracanalculiar insert. He stressed the importance ofdilating the puncta to ensure proper insertion and to promptly insert the device after dilation. He also had another pro-tip to not be discouraged if it takes a few tries to perfect this. In his experience, he’s had no complications including no IOP spikes, but the insert can be flushed if removal is necessary.

New and exciting upcoming drugs to keep an eye out on is the novel reactive aldehyde species inhibitor (RASP inhibitor), which can work earlier in the inflammatory cascade than corticosteroids and immunomodulators. Another exciting innovation on the horizon are antihistamine-releasing daily disposable contact lenses.

If you were not able to make it, check out Dr. Schweitzer’s presentation under Past Events on WooU.org!