Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Serological and Lacrimal Signaling in Patients Affected by Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC)

Table 1

Demographics and clinical grading of 21 vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) patients.

Characteristics of VKC patients
Sex	16 males (76%)	5 females (24%)
Age (from 6 to 16 years)	Mean 8.62	SD ± 2.65
VA (BCVA)	20/20	SD ± 0.0
Atopic SPT	11 positive (52.4%); major allergens: house dust and grasses	10 negative (47.6%)
Family condition	12 (57%) familiar with allergic DS	3 (14%) familiar with autoimmune DS
VKC forms	Tarsal: 13 (62%)	Mixed: 8 (38%)
Vitamin D levels (VKC vs controls) (in ng/ml)	19.8 ± 6.7 vs 24.7 ± 6.5	Lower levels if compared to controls ()

ANA positivity	30.8%	Total IgE 4100 UI/ml	46.1%
Photophobia (grade 4)	42.3%	Secretion or tearing	28.8%
Foreign body sensation	25.4%	Itching and conjunctival hyperemia	11.5%

SD: standard deviation; VA: visual acuity; BCVA: best-corrected visual acuity for far distance; SPT: skin prick test for several common inhalants and food allergens; DS: diseases.