Corneal ulcer (patient information)

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What is a corneal ulcer?

A corneal ulcer is an erosion or open sore in the outer layer of the cornea, which is the transparent area at the front of the eyeball. It is associated with infection.

What are the symptoms of a corneal ulcer?

• Eye burning, itching and discharge
• Eye pain
• Eye redness
• Impaired vision
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Watery eyes
• White patch on the cornea

What are the causes of a corneal ulcer?

Corneal ulcers are most commonly caused by an infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Other causes include:

• Abrasions (scratches)
• Foreign bodies in the eye
• Inadequate eyelid closure
• Severely dry eyes
• Severe allergies
• Various inflammatory disorders

Contact lens wear, especially soft contact lenses worn overnight, may cause a corneal ulcer.

Herpes simplex keratitis is a serious viral infection that may cause repeated attacks that are triggered by stress, exposure to sunlight, or any condition that impairs the immune system.

Fungal keratitis can occur after a corneal injury involving plant material, or in immunosuppressed people. Acanthamoeba keratitis occurs in contact lens users, especially those who attempt to make their own homemade cleaning solutions.

How to know you have a corneal ulcer?

A corneal ulcer is diagnosed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist when performing certain tests, including:

• Examination of scrapings from the ulcer
• Fluorescein stain of the cornea
• Keratometry (measurement of the cornea)
• Pupillary reflex response
• Refraction test
• Slit-lamp examination
• Tear test
• Visual acuity

Blood tests to check for inflammatory disorders may also be needed.

Treatment options

Treating corneal ulcers and infections depends on the cause. They should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further injury to the cornea. Patients usually start treatment with an antibiotic that is effective against many bacteria. More specific antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops are prescribed as soon as the cause of the ulcer has been identified.

Corticosteroid eye drops may be used to reduce inflammation in certain conditions. Severe ulcers may need to be treated with corneal transplantation.

Where to find medical care for a corneal ulcer

Directions to Hospitals Treating yourdisease

Sources

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001032.htm