vernal conjunctivitis /vur″nəl/ [L, vernare, springlike, conjunctivus, connecting; Gk, itis, inflammation] , a chronic, bilateral inflammation of the conjunctiva, thought to be allergic in origin, that occurs most frequently in men under 20 years of age during the spring and summer. The most common symptoms include intense itching and a crusting discharge. Topical corticosteroids may be applied, and desensitization to pollen may be helpful. Compare allergic conjunctivitis.
