Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic, severe allergy that affects the surfaces of the eyes. It most commonly occurs in boys living in warm, dry climates. Attacks associated with VKC are common in the spring (hence the name "vernal") and summer but often reoccur in the winter. Signs and symptoms usually begin before 10 years of age and may include hard, cobblestone-like bumps (papillae) on the upper eyelid; sensitivity to light; redness; sticky mucus discharge; and involuntary blinking or spasms of the eyelid (blepharospasm). The condition usually subsides at the onset of puberty. It is caused by a hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to airborne-allergens. Management focuses on preventing "flare ups" and relieving the symptoms of the condition.

A few prescription drugs may also be available for the treatment of VKC; these include cromolyn sodium, lodoxamide tromethamine and Levocabastine. Oral administration of montelukast, a drug usually prescribed for asthma, has also been shown to be an effective treatment of VKC. For more information about these drugs and their availability, individuals should speak with their health care providers.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) generally resolves spontaneously after puberty without any further symptoms or visual complications. However, the development of corneal ulcers (in approximately 9.7% of affected individuals), cataract or glaucoma can potentially cause permanent vision loss. Beginning treatment immediately after receiving the diagnosis of VKC is very important because the longer an individual has complications from the disease, the greater the chances of developing cataracts or permanent blindness. It has been reported that the size of the papillae is directly related to the probability of persistence or worsening of symptoms (i.e. the larger the papillae, the worse the prognosis is). It has also been reported that the bulbar forms of VKC have a worse long-term prognosis than the tarsal forms.