Adenovirus epidemic keratoconjunctivitis
Trufanov S.V., Malozhen S.A., Krakhmaleva D.A., Pivin E.A.

State Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is widespread contagious disease of ocular surface caused by adenovirus infection. Epidemic outbreaks of EKC can lead to significant economic losses, including temporary disability of patients. Some EKC cases can lead to permanent visual acuity impairment. The diagnosis is mainly clinical, although its etiology can be confirmed using laboratory tests with detection of antigens, polymerase chain reaction, electron microscopy and cell cultures. Early correct diagnosis and adherence to preventive services of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis are most reliable methods to control spreading of infection. 
Antiviral drugs with specific activity against adenovirus are not available to date, so the treatment is symptomatic. It is believed that use of corticosteroids is reasonable in complicated forms of EKC where there is a threat of loss of visual acuity due to the emergence of persistent subepithelial infiltrates, pseudomembranous conjunctivitis and iridocyclitis. However, a balanced approach is necessary taking into consideration the possible clinical benefits in relieving the symptoms and risks associated with use of corticosteroids. It is a clinical challenge to choose an adequate method of treatment of EKC, while the search for an effective anti-viral therapy with minimal side effects continues. When assigning existing therapeutic regimens of EKS treatment it is necessary to keep a competent individual approach to prevent irreversible decrease in visual acuity.

Key words: adenovirus, epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, interferon inductors, corticosteroids, cyclosporine A, kationorm, diagnosis, treatment.

For citation: Trufanov S.V., Malozhen S.A., Krakhmaleva D.A., Pivin E.A. Adenovirus epidemic keratoconjunctivitis // RMJ. Clinical ophthalmology. 2016. № 3. P. 144–150.