superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis
A chronic and recurrent eye disease which affects the superior bulbar conjunctiva (the clear layer that covers the eyeball, over the sclera) and tarsal conjunctiva (the clear layer that lines the eyelids), as well as the superior limbic aspect of the cornea (the area above the cornea). It is commonly found in women 20-70 years of age. The signs and symptoms include burning, redness and irritation and tend to develop slowly over a period of 1 to 10 years.Vision usually remains intact. While the underlying cause of SLK remains unknown, it is believed that the condition is secondary to superior bulbar conjunctiva laxity. Factors inducing conjunctiva laxity include thyroid eye disease (usually hyperthyroidism), tight upper eyelids, and prominent globes. A mimicking disorder has been encountered in soft contact lens (SCL) wearers, typically with exposure to thimerosal-preserved solutions. Treatment of SLK may involve the use of various medications, surgery, or a combination of both.