Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea. The cornea is the clear outer tissue layer on the front of the eye. Keratitis is a potentially vision threatening condition. It is also a Public Health problem which requires prompt diagnosis. About 2million cases of corneal ulcers are reported every year in developing countries.

There are two major types of keratitis: Non-infectious Keratitis and Infectious Keratitis. The non-infectious Keratitis is caused by eye injuries, contaminated contact lenses and presence of foreign object in the eye. Infectious Keratitis is caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and contaminated water.

Risk factors of keratitis are improper contact lenses care, compromised immunity and corticosteroids.

Symptoms of keratitis are eye redness, eye pain, excess tears and discharge, blurred vision, impaired vision and light sensitivity. If left untreated, keratitis can lead to scarring of the cornea, corneal ulcers and permanent loss of vision.

Laboratory diagnosis of keratitis is carried out either by corneal biopsy or microscopic examination and culture of cornea smear or scraping.

Keratitis can be prevented by taking proper care of contact lenses and preventing viral outbreaks. Some treatments for keratitis are antibiotic medication, adjunctive therapy and surgery.

Visit MedBioTechLab for corneal biopsy, microscopic examination and culture of cornea like specimens. Early diagnosis aids quick intervention and prevents permanent loss of vision.

References:

www.mayoclinic.org

www.medicalnewstoday.com

www.nigerianjournalofopthamology.com