Keratitis

Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. It can be caused by infections, injuries, or underlying conditions, leading to symptoms like eye redness, pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If you suspect keratitis, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Keratitis can be caused by various factors, including:

1. **Infections:** Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections can lead to keratitis. Common culprits include herpes simplex virus, bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, and fungi like Fusarium.

2. **Injuries:** Trauma, scratches, or foreign objects in the eye can create openings for infection, triggering keratitis.

3. **Contact lenses:** Improper use, extended wear, or poor hygiene with contact lenses can increase the risk of bacterial or fungal keratitis.

4. **Dry eyes:** Inadequate tear production or poor quality tears may make the cornea more susceptible to irritation and infection.

5. **Underlying conditions:** Conditions such as autoimmune diseases, allergies, or certain systemic infections can contribute to keratitis.

Several factors increase the risk of developing keratitis, including:

1. **Contact lens use:** Incorrect use, extended wear, or poor hygiene with contact lenses can heighten the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.

2. **Eye injuries:** Any trauma or damage to the cornea increases the likelihood of infection and inflammation leading to keratitis.

3. **Reduced immune function:** Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system can make individuals more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the cornea.

4. **Dry eye syndrome:** Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can make the cornea more vulnerable to irritation and potential infections.

5. **Previous eye surgeries:** Procedures such as corneal transplantation or refractive surgery may increase the risk of keratitis.

6. **Certain medical conditions:** Conditions like autoimmune diseases, allergies, and chronic eye diseases can elevate the risk of keratitis.

7. **Environmental factors:** Exposure to certain environments, such as dusty or windy conditions, can contribute to corneal irritation and increase the risk of infection.

The signs and symptoms of keratitis may include:

1. **Eye redness:** The affected eye may appear red and irritated.

2. **Pain or discomfort:** Individuals with keratitis often experience eye pain, a sensation of foreign body presence, or general discomfort.

3. **Blurred or decreased vision:** Vision may be affected, with blurriness or a decrease in clarity.

4. **Sensitivity to light (photophobia):** Bright lights may cause discomfort and increased sensitivity.

5. **Excessive tearing or discharge:** Watery eyes or discharge may be present, depending on the cause of keratitis.

6. **Difficulty opening the eye:** In severe cases, swelling or pain may make it challenging to fully open the affected eye.

7. **Increased tearing:** The eye may produce more tears as a response to irritation.

There are different types of keratitis, categorized based on their causes and characteristics. Some common types include:

1. **Bacterial Keratitis:** Caused by bacterial infections, often associated with poor contact lens hygiene or eye injuries.

2. **Viral Keratitis:** Resulting from viral infections, with herpes simplex virus being a common cause. This type may lead to recurrent episodes.

3. **Fungal Keratitis:** Caused by fungal infections, often associated with trauma or contact lens use in contaminated environments.

4. **Acanthamoeba Keratitis:** Caused by a microscopic, free-living amoeba. It is more common in contact lens wearers who may use contaminated water.

5. **Non-Infectious Keratitis:** Inflammation of the cornea not caused by an infection. It can be associated with autoimmune diseases or other underlying conditions.

6. **Neurotrophic Keratitis:** Resulting from impaired corneal sensation, often seen in conditions affecting the nerves of the eye.

The diagnostic evaluation for keratitis typically involves:

1. **Medical History:** Your healthcare provider will inquire about your symptoms, recent eye injuries, contact lens use, and any relevant medical history.

2. **Slit-lamp Examination:** A specialized microscope called a slit lamp allows detailed examination of the cornea and other parts of the eye. This helps in identifying any abnormalities.

3. **Corneal Cultures:** If an infectious cause is suspected, a sample from the cornea may be cultured to identify the specific pathogen responsible.

4. **Fluorescein Staining:** This involves using a special dye and a blue light to highlight any defects or damage on the cornea's surface.

5. **Visual Acuity Testing:** To assess the extent of vision impairment, if any.

6. **Intraocular Pressure Measurement:** This is done to rule out conditions like glaucoma that can cause similar symptoms.

7. **Additional Tests:** Depending on the suspected cause, additional tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for viral DNA or imaging studies may be conducted.

The treatment for keratitis depends on its cause:

1. **Bacterial Keratitis:** Typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Severe cases may require oral antibiotics.

2. **Viral Keratitis:** Antiviral medications, either in eye drop or oral form, may be prescribed. Recurrent cases might need long-term management.

3. **Fungal Keratitis:** Antifungal medications, either topical or systemic, are used. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.

4. **Acanthamoeba Keratitis:** Antimicrobial eye drops are often used. Advanced cases may involve more intensive therapies, such as corneal transplantation.

5. **Non-Infectious Keratitis:** Treatment depends on the underlying cause. It may involve anti-inflammatory medications, lubricating eye drops, or addressing any associated systemic conditions.