Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Among Caregivers of Children With Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis in a Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital

Purpose: To determine the knowledge and attitude about vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and factors affecting the practice and compliance with treatment in caregivers of children with VKC. Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary care pediatric hospital in northern India. It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study in which 65 caregivers (parents or guardians) were interviewed regarding their knowledge about the disease and attitude of caregivers. Results: Of 268 children with VKC visiting the ophthalmology department during the study period, 65 children met the inclusion criteria; 53 (81.54%) were boys and 12 (18.46%) were girls. A total of 69.2% of caregivers were not aware of the symptoms of the disease and 83% of caregivers were unaware of the side effects of eye drops used. A total of 24.61% of caregivers considered VKC affected school hours and other recreational activities of children (P < .001). Compliance with treatment decreases with more episodes of VKC and longer duration of symptoms. Conclusions: The chronic course of the disease affects compliance with treatment and follow-up with an eye specialist. Proper education of caregivers of children with VKC can influence the compliance with treatment.