Corneal infections/ ulcers

Corneal infections are a frequent presentation at the outpatient clinic. Risk factors include trauma, contact lens wear, Diabetes, Vit a deficiency and other eye pathologies such as eye lid inflammation, dry eye and exposure of the cornea due to eye lid disease.

The ulcers may have a bacterial, viral, fungal, protozoal or immunological etiology. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial to identifying the causative agent and adequately addressing the pathology to reduce the risk of more serious complications such as corneal scars, intraocular spread of the infection and permanent visual loss.

Symptoms include acute pain, decreased vision, and severe redness of the eye and in corneal infiltrates. Treatment usually starts with intense topical anti-infectious agents based on the identified pathogen. Follow up is critical and surgical treatment is reserved for any residual severe visual impairment post resolution.