CORNEAL ULCER

 A corneal ulcer is a type of infectious keratitis, characterized by an open sore or ulcer on the surface of the cornea. It is a serious condition that can cause significant damage to the cornea, leading to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly and effectively.

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcer

  • Severe pain, redness, and light sensitivity in the affected eye
  • Blurred vision or visual distortion
  • Excessive tearing or discharge from the eye
  • The feeling of something in the eye
  • Swelling or cloudiness of the cornea
  • Pus formation on the eye surface or in the cornea
  • A visible ulcer on the surface of the cornea

Causes of Corneal Ulcer

  • Bacterial infections such as staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus pneumoniae, haemophilus influenzae, and pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most common cause of corneal ulcer.
  • Fungal infections are less common, but can also cause corneal ulcer.
  • Viral infections such as Herpes Simplex Virus and Varicella Zoster Virus can also cause corneal ulcer.
  • Trauma or injury to the eye can also lead to the development of corneal ulcer.
  • Contact lens use, specially prolonged use or improper care, can also lead to corneal ulcer.
  • Immune disorder such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid can also lead to Corneal Ulcer.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Corneal ulcer is typically diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms and the presence of an open sore or ulcer on the cornea. A sample of the discharge or tissue from the cornea may be taken for culture and sensitivity testing to identify the specific cause of the infection.

Treatment of corneal ulcer usually involves the use of topical antibiotics or antifungal medications to eliminate the infection. In some cases, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may also be prescribed.

To prevent the spread of infection and to promote healing, the eye will be patched with a bandage contact lens to protect the infected area and to help with the administration of the medication.

In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the infected tissue and to repair the damage to the cornea. In some cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision and repair the damage to the cornea.

Prevention and Management

  • Avoiding eye trauma, like rubbing the eyes or exposing them to harsh chemicals
  • Washing your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes
  • Not sharing personal items such as towels, contact lenses or makeup
  • Following proper contact lens care and replacement schedule
  • Seeking medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of corneal ulcer, specially if experiencing eye pain or vision changes
  • Be aware of any warning signs for an underlying immune disorder or any other systemic disease, specially in patients with recurrent corneal ulcer

Corneal ulcer can be a serious and sight-threatening condition if not treated promptly and effectively. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of corneal ulcer and to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. With proper treatment, most cases of corneal ulcer can be successfully managed and vision loss can be prevented, but in some cases it can lead to severe visual impairment or even blindness.

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