In SLK management, which statement about steroid use is accurate?

In SLK management, which statement about steroid use is accurate?

• A. Steroids are never used in SLK
• B. Steroids are the first-line treatment regardless of severity
• C. Steroids may be used if the inflammation is severe
• D. Steroids permanently cure SLK

Answer: (C)

Inflammation control is a major part of SLK management, but steroids are not used indiscriminately. In mild cases, addressing lid disease, eyelid hygiene, lubrication, and avoiding contact lens wear often suffices. When inflammation is severe, a brief course of topical corticosteroids can rapidly dampen the immune response on the ocular surface, relieve symptoms, and speed healing. The goal is to use the lowest effective potency for the shortest time and to monitor for side effects such as pressure rise, cataract progression, or susceptibility to infection, while also continuing to treat the underlying cause (lid disease, contact lens factors). Steroids do not permanently cure SLK; once stopped, inflammation may recur if the root issues aren’t resolved. It’s also important to rule out infection before starting steroids, since steroids can worsen an infectious process.

Inflammation control is a major part of SLK management, but steroids are not used indiscriminately. In mild cases, addressing lid disease, eyelid hygiene, lubrication, and avoiding contact lens wear often suffices. When inflammation is severe, a brief course of topical corticosteroids can rapidly dampen the immune response on the ocular surface, relieve symptoms, and speed healing. The goal is to use the lowest effective potency for the shortest time and to monitor for side effects such as pressure rise, cataract progression, or susceptibility to infection, while also continuing to treat the underlying cause (lid disease, contact lens factors). Steroids do not permanently cure SLK; once stopped, inflammation may recur if the root issues aren’t resolved. It’s also important to rule out infection before starting steroids, since steroids can worsen an infectious process.