American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

In the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, which of the following is commonly recommended?

1. Topical steroids only

2. Oral antihistamines only

3. Artificial tears

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The management of allergic conjunctivitis commonly involves a combination of different treatment approaches to address various symptoms effectively. Each of the recommended treatments plays a distinct role in alleviating discomfort and reducing inflammation. Topical steroids can be effective in reducing inflammation in more severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis. They work by decreasing the immune response and minimizing symptoms such as redness and swelling. However, due to potential side effects with long-term use, they are generally recommended for short-term management. Oral antihistamines help alleviate systemic allergic symptoms such as sneezing and itching. They also provide some relief from eye symptoms by blocking histamine receptors, which can reduce itching and redness. Artificial tears serve as a lubricating agent that can help wash away allergens from the eye surface and relieve dryness associated with allergic reactions. They provide symptomatic relief by soothing the ocular surface. Given the multiplicity of symptoms and varying severity of allergic conjunctivitis, using a combination of these treatments is often advised for comprehensive management. Therefore, it is accurate that multiple approaches, including topical steroids, oral antihistamines, and artificial tears, are commonly recommended in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis.