Factors contributing to poor treatment outcome of vernal keratoconjuctivitits in children in the Lepelle-Nkumpi municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a bilateral, chronic form of allergic eye disease characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva and usually presents in the first decade of life. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the factors contributing to poor treatment outcome of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in children in the Lepelle-Nkumpi municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Methods: A quantitative study was conducted by using a structured questionnaire administered by the researcher to collect data at the eye clinics in Lebowakgomo and Zebediela Hospitals. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to conduct the study. A systemic random sampling method was used to select 240 children between the ages of two and twelve years who had been diagnosed with VKC. Data was analysed by using the SPSS software program. Results: Data is presented by applying descriptive and inferential statistics. The majority of parents/guardians (80%) reported not knowing about VKC even though the condition was explained to them when their children were first diagnosed. The study shows no association between gender of the parents/guardians and knowledge of VKC (p>0.005) as indicated on Table 4.6. The study shows association between education of parents/guardians and knowledge of VKC (p<0.005) as shown by Table 4.7. The parents/principal guardians (74.2%) reported that even if they could not manage to accompany their children all the time due to work primarily, they asked their next relative to accompany their children on their behalf so that children don’t miss their review appointments. Conclusion: It was, therefore, recommended that when a child is diagnosed with VKC, the parent/guardian should be given the details about the condition along with an information pamphlet/leaflet that contains important key factors about the condition for future reference. It is also recommended that after a child has taken treatment from the hospital for three consecutive months, a prescription letter should be given to the parent/guardian to collect treatment at the nearest clinic for the next three months to ensure compliance and easy access to medication. Key words: Knowledge, Vernal keratoconjunctivitis, children, parents/guardians