Hyperréactivité conjonctivale : approche diagnostique

The notion of conjunctival hyperreactivity (CHR) is not used much at present. However, its existence is supported by the results of a number of investigations. Here we will review a number of the publications on this subject. The results of conjunctival provocation tests (CPT) with different non-specific irritants have been reported. In patients with allergic conjunctivitis, a positive CPT is evidence of the coexistence of non-specific bronchial hyperreactivity, which often exists along with allergen-induced bronchial hyperreactivity. Non-specific CHR can also be a sign of persistent minimal inflammation, as observed in patients suffering from allergy to mites. These findings allow us to describe a clinical picture of CHR, with the result that treatment can be started sooner in patients with this condition. Finally, minimal non-specific CHR is often seen in patients between periods of allergen-induced CHR.