Corneal Ulcer

A corneal ulcer, also known as keratitis, is an open sore that appears on the cornea, the clear tissue at the front of the eye.

What Is A Corneal Ulcer?

 

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea which can be caused by eye infections (from bacteria), severe dry eye or contact lenses. Small tears to the cornea resulting from direct trauma, scratches from small particles of sad or steel make the eye susceptible to contracting bacteria, in which case serious ulcers may develop.

What Causes Corneal Ulcers?

 

    • Infections: Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections can cause corneal ulcers. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a common type of parasitic infection that can occur in people who wear contact lenses, especially if they make their own cleaning solutions. 

    • Injuries: Scrapes, burns, or other injuries to the cornea can cause ulcers to form. 

    • Other eye disorders: Conditions that dry out the cornea, such as dry eye syndrome or Bell palsy, can cause corneal ulcers. 

  • Autoimmune diseases: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can cause corneal ulcers. 
 

Extended wear contact lenses that are worn for several days without being removed at night, can place the wearer at risk of developing corneal ulcers. This is because dirt may become trapped underneath the lens and scratches the cornea, opening it up to infection. Similarly if bacteria are trapped under the lenses for an extended period, these bacteria can multiply and cause damage to the cornea.

 

What Are The Symptoms?

Symptoms of a corneal ulcer include: 

    • Redness of the eye

    • Severe pain and soreness

    • Feeling like there is something in your eye

    • Tearing

    • Pus or other discharge

    • Blurred vision

    • Sensitivity to light

    • Swelling of the eyelids

    • A white spot on the cornea

Signs of infection to look out that can lead to corneal ulcers are eye itching, watering, burning or stinging, pink eye and pus like discharge.

 

How Is It Treated?

Corneal ulcers are a medical emergency that require immediate treatment. If left untreated, they can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness. Treatments include: 

    • Eye drops, such as antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals

    • Oral painkillers

    • Pupil dilating drops

    • Special contact lenses

    • Laser eye surgery

    • Corneal transplant, which involves replacing the cornea with a healthy one from another person

Eye medication is prescribed to treat corneal ulcers and patients should avoid wearing contact lenses, wearing make up and touching eyes. In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be required.