Atropine Catarrh

Atropine Catarrh, inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye, which sometimes occurs with prolonged use of atropine solutions, usually administered in the form of drops for various eye conditions. Clinically, the process is characterized by pronounced hyperemia of the conjunctiva, which has a color ranging from pink-red to yellowish, severe edema, and, mainly, abundant formation of follicles, usually large and located not only in the transitional folds but also affecting the cartilage area; the eyelids also show edema and redness of the margins. This catarrh, similar to catarrh from prolonged use of eserine and sometimes cocaine, is caused by idiosyncrasy of the conjunctiva to these chemical substances. In practical terms, it is important to differentiate A. c. from other follicular processes, and especially from trachoma: the benign course and rapid disappearance of the catarrh upon removal or replacement of atropine serve as the main differential diagnostic sign.