eMedicine Specialties > Emergency Medicine > Ophthalmology
Corneal Ulceration and Ulcerative Keratitis
Updated: Sep 15, 2008
Introduction
Background
Because of its potential to permanently impair vision or perforate the eye, a corneal ulcer is considered an ophthalmologic emergency. While corneal ulcers occasionally may be sterile, most are infectious in etiology. Ulcers due to viral infection occur on a previously intact corneal epithelium. Bacterial corneal ulcers generally follow a traumatic break in the corneal epithelium, thereby providing an entry for bacteria. The traumatic episode may be minor, such as a minute abrasion from a small foreign body, or it may result from such causes as tear insufficiency, malnutrition, or contact lens use. Increased use of soft contact lenses in recent years has led to a dramatic rise in the occurrence of corneal ulcer, particularly due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In addition, with the introduction of topical corticosteroid drugs in the treatment of eye disease, fungal corneal ulcers have become more common.
Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that can lead to rapid corneal destruction (corneal melt) and perforation with loss of vision.
Mooren ulcer is a rapidly progressive, painful, ulcerative keratitis, which initially affects the peripheral cornea and may spread circumferentially and then centrally. Mooren ulcer can only be diagnosed in the absence of an infectious or systemic cause.
For a CME activity, see AAO 2007: Cornea and External Disease.
Pathophysiology
Risk factors include contact lens use, trauma, ocular surface disease, and ocular surgery. Overnight contact lens wear has been shown to be associated with increased risk. Other identified risk factors include age, gender smoking, low socioeconomic class, and inadequate contact lens hygiene.
Common bacterial isolates cultured from patients with keratitis include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterobacteriaceae (including Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Serratia, and Proteus). Klebsiella pneumoniae mucoid phenotype and its ability to form biofilm may be important in producing a corneal ulceration. Agents, such as N- acetylcysteine, may have a role in treatment because they inhibit biofilm formation.
Fungi (Fusarium) and amoeba (Acanthamoeba) have been found in a small number of patients but frequently present with more severe symptoms.
Herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viruses can both cause a significant keratitis.Mooren ulcer is an idiopathic ulceration of the peripheral cornea, which may be due to an autoimmune reaction or it may be associated with the hepatitis C virus.
Frequency
United States
Approximately 25,000 Americans develop infectious keratitis annually. The annual incidence of microbial keratitis associated with contact lens use is approximately 2-4 infections per 10,000 users of soft contact lenses and 10-20 infections per 10,000 users of extended-wear contact lenses. Approximately 10% of these infections result in the loss of 2 or more lines of visual acuity.
International
A study from the United Kingdom reports factors associated with an increased risk of a corneal invasive event: wearing extended-wear hydrogel lenses, male gender, smoking, and the late winter months (March > July).1
Authors from the United Kingdom also report an 8 times higher incidence of corneal invasive event in contact lens wearers who sleep in contact lenses compared with wearers who use lenses only during the waking hours.2
Mortality/Morbidity
Corneal scarring and vision loss are possible.
Sex
Studies from the United Kingdom suggest that males who wear extended-wear contact lenses are at increased risk of forming a corneal ulcer.
Other studies suggest that males are at increased risk due to the higher probability of sustaining ocular trauma.
Age
Corneal injury or infection can affect people of all ages. A bimodal distribution exists. The age groups with a higher prevalence of disease are likely tied to risk factors, those in the first group (<30 y) who are more likely to be contact lenses wearers and/or sustain ocular trauma, and those in the second group (>50 y) who are more likely to undergo eye surgery.
Clinical
History
A number of questions can help make the diagnosis of keratitis.
- Current symptoms
- Erythema of eyelid and conjunctiva
- Mucopurulent discharge from eye
- Foreign body sensation
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Pain
- Medication and contact lens use
- Contact lens use
- Type of contact lens (soft, hard, extended wear)
- Type of contact lens solution
- Contact lens hygiene
- Current ocular medications, especially steroids
- Past medical history
- History of ocular disease, eye surgery, or both
- Diabetes mellitus
- Exposure to sulphur mustard3
- Collagen vascular disease (rheumatoid arthritis)
- Social history
- Smoking history
- Inquiry about the dietary habits of a patient with a corneal ulcer is important because vitamin A deficiency is associated with corneal ulcer formation.
- Inadequate vitamin A can occur in a patient with an intentional diet deprivation or unintentional deprivation found in young children and pregnant women from Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Secondary vitamin A deficiency may be found in a patient with celiac disease, sprue, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic disease, duodenal bypass, congenital partial obstruction of the jejunum, obstruction of the bile ducts, giardiasis, and cirrhosis.
Physical
The physical examination should include a through physical examination, with additional focus on the eye examination. Visual acuity, gross examination of the eyelids, surface of the eye, pupils, extraocular muscles, and fundi, should be performed and documented. A slit lamp examination and ocular pressure measurements should also be obtained.
- Visual function is affected variably, depending on the location of the ulcer and whether associated corneal and uveal inflammation is present. Obtain visual acuities on all patients with ocular complaints.
- Examination of the lids and the conjunctiva may reveal associated inflammation in these locations.
- The eye is typically erythematous, and ciliary injection is often present. Pupillary constriction is usually present secondary to ciliary spasm and iritis.
- Purulent exudate may be seen in the conjunctival sac and on the surface of the ulcer, and infiltration of the stroma may result in a creamy opacity of the cornea. The ulcer often is round or oval, and the border generally is demarcated sharply, with the base appearing ragged and gray.
- Slit lamp examination may reveal findings of iritis, and hypopyon may be present. Hypopyon is an accumulation of inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber that produces a layered meniscus in the inferior anterior chamber.
- Fluorescein staining may reveal the characteristic dendritic ulcer of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection.
- A Wood lamp may be useful, since the ulcer associated with P aeruginosa fluoresces in ultraviolet light.
Causes
- Viral infections
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is the most common cause of corneal ulcer in the United States. Although not always present, the classic finding in HSV infection is a branching dendritic ulcer.
- Infection with HSV may interfere with corneal sensation, resulting in corneal anesthesia.
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) can cause a corneal ulcer. Although corneal involvement can occur in varicella (chickenpox), it is uncommon and typically benign. The form of zoster (shingles) involving the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve is a more common corneal infection caused by VZV.
- When herpetic eruption occurs along the nose, the nasociliary branch of the ophthalmic nerve is involved, indicating that corneal involvement is likely. This is known as the Hutchinson sign.
- The dendritic pattern seen in HSV infection is not seen with zoster infection, although pseudodendrites, which only vaguely resemble true dendrites, may be present. Loss of corneal sensation is a prominent feature of zoster infection.
- In contrast to the usual benign course in varicella and HSV, corneal complications in ophthalmic zoster can be severe and blinding.
- Superficial punctate keratitis is characterized by destruction of pinpoint areas in the outer layer of the corneal epithelium is associated with adenoviruses.
- Bacterial infections
- Numerous bacteria have been reported to cause corneal ulcer, although staphylococcal species, P aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella species are reportedly the most common causes in the United States.
- Clinical characteristics of corneal ulcers caused by various bacteria are not sufficiently distinct to determine the causal bacterial agent, although a corneal ulcer having a bluish or green mucopurulent discharge is almost pathognomonic for P aeruginosa.
- Most corneal ulcers are centered, but some occur at the periphery of the cornea (ie, marginal ulcers).
- Although the location of the ulcer does not correlate well with the causative organism, a marginal ulcer is more likely to occur as a result of staphylococcal blepharoconjunctivitis. This ulcer is not due to direct bacterial infection but rather is an inflammatory reaction to staphylococcal bacterial antigens and toxins. The ulcer usually is self-limited and lasts from 7-10 days, but it is likely to recur unless the underlying blepharoconjunctivitis is treated.
- Fungal infections: Fungal ulcers are caused by Candida, Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cephalosporium, and mycosis fungoides species.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis
- Peripheral ulcerative keratitis, associated with rheumatoid arthritis, relapsing polychondritis, and Wegener granulomatosis
- Photokeratitis (snowblindness) is caused by excess exposure to UV light. This can occur with sunlight, suntanning lamps, or a welding arc.
- Sulphur mustard chemical keratitis
Differential Diagnoses
Herpes Zoster
Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus
Other Problems to Be Considered
Corneal foreign body
Blepharitis
Mooren ulcer
Terrien degeneration
Herpes simplex keratitis
Workup
Laboratory Studies
Perform the following for corneal ulcers:
- Culture the ulcer.
- Rheumatoid arthritis evaluation
Other Tests
- Scrapings of the ulcer may be necessary to identify the underlying organism. Place samples directly on culture media.
Treatment
Emergency Department Care
Immediately obtain ophthalmologic consultation for all corneal ulcers, so that cultures may be taken and treatment initiated. Choice of medications should be left to the treating ophthalmologist but generally include broad-spectrum topical antibiotics and cycloplegic drops.
Consultations
Corneal ulcers are considered an ophthalmologic emergency. Immediate ophthalmologic consultation is indicated.
Medication
The first-line regimen usually consists of alternating an aminoglycoside with a first-generation cephalosporin every 15-30 minutes. Frequently used, ciprofloxacin 0.3%, offers a shorter average time to healing and a reduced duration of therapy than conventional therapy. Obviously, the concern with this type of monotherapy is resistance.
Antibiotics may be administered by subconjunctival injection if compliance is a concern. To reduce the inhibition of corneal regeneration caused by concentrated antimicrobial solutions, the intervals between antimicrobial instillation and/or frequency of instillation should be prolonged following a decrease in purulence and a reduction in ulcer size.
If tests show that a viral infection is present, begin therapy with mechanical debridement of the infected rim along with a rim of the normal epithelium, followed by a topical instillation of the antiviral medications.
In fungal infections, a broad-spectrum antifungal drug usually is chosen. Some of the alternatives include natamycin, fluconazole, amphotericin B, miconazole, and ketoconazole. Natamycin is the first-line treatment in fungal infections of the cornea.
An adjunctive therapy may be required for conditions secondary to the ulcer. Atropine 1% or scopolamine 0.25% drops can be used to prevent formation of adhesions between the iris and the lens or cornea.
Topical corticosteroid use is controversial because its use in viral infections is relatively contraindicated, but it may prevent corneal scarring and perforation. Corticosteroids must be tapered to prevent rebound inflammation.
Hyperosmotics, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, or beta-blockers can be administered if transient increases of intraocular pressure result from the keratitis.
Anesthetics
Anesthetics are indicated for pain relief and for conjunctival and corneal scrapings. Local anesthetics stabilize the neuronal membrane and prevent the initiation and transmission of nerve impulses, thereby producing the local anesthetic action.
Proparacaine (Ophthetic, I-Paracaine)
Has a rapid onset of anesthesia that begins within 13-30 sec after instillation. Short duration of action (about 15-20 min). Since prolonged eye anesthesia can eliminate the patient's awareness of mechanical damage to the cornea, do not use outside of the ED. Frequent use of anesthetics may retard healing.
Dosing
Adult
2-3 gtt q15-20min during ED examination
1-2 gtt q5-10min of 0.5% solution for 5-7 doses
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Caution in cardiac disease or hyperthyroidism and with abnormal or reduced levels of plasma esterases
Antibiotics
Therapy must cover all likely pathogens in the context of the clinical setting.
Cefazolin (Ancef, Kefzol)
First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic for gram-positive bacterial coverage. Commonly used in combination with an aminoglycoside to achieve broad-spectrum coverage.
This 50-133 mg/mL solution must be compounded.
Dosing
Adult
1-2 gtt q2-4h 50-133 mg/mL solution; not to exceed 2 gtt q1h for severe infections
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; viral, mycobacterial, and fungal infections of the eye; use of steroid combinations after uncomplicated removal of corneal foreign body
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Not for use in ocular infections likely to become systemic; bacterial or fungal overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms may occur with prolonged or repeated therapy
Gentamicin (Genoptic)
Aminoglycoside antibiotic used for gram-negative bacterial coverage. Commonly used in combination with a first-generation cephalosporin.
Dosing
Adult
Ointment: 0.5-inch (1.25-cm) ribbon bid/tid to q3-4h to the affected eye
Solution: 1-2 gtt q2-4h; not to exceed q1h for severe infections
This preparation should be fortified to a concentration of 15 mg/mL, which must be compounded.
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; viral, mycobacterial, and fungal infections of the eye; use of steroid combinations after uncomplicated removal of a corneal foreign body
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Do not use to treat ocular infections that may become systemic; prolonged or repeated antibiotic therapy may result in bacterial or fungal overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms and may lead to secondary infections
Erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S.)
Indicated for treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms and for prevention of corneal and conjunctival infections.
Dosing
Adult
0.5-inch (1.25-cm) ribbon 2-8 times/d, depending on severity of infection
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; viral, mycobacterial, and fungal infections of the eye; use of steroid combinations after uncomplicated removal of a corneal foreign body
Precautions
Pregnancy
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Precautions
Do not use topical antibiotics to treat ocular infections that may become systemic; prolonged or repeated antibiotic therapy may result in bacterial or fungal overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms and may lead to a secondary infection (take appropriate measures if superinfection occurs)
Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)
Bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis, and consequently growth, by inhibiting DNA gyrase in susceptible organisms.
Indicated for pseudomonal infections and those due to multidrug-resistant gram-negative organisms.
Dosing
Adult
1-2 gtt q1h while awake for 1 d; 1-2 gtt q4h while awake for another 7 d
Pediatric
Not established
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; viral, mycobacterial, and fungal eye infections; use of steroid combinations after uncomplicated removal of a corneal foreign body
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
A white crystalline precipitate located in the superficial portion of corneal defect may occur (onset in 1-7 d); precipitate is usually cleared within 2 wk and does not adversely affect clinical course or outcome; do not use in ocular infections that may become systemic; superinfections may occur with prolonged or repeated antibiotic therapy
Antirheumatic, disease-modifying agents
These agents are used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis associated corneal ulcer.
Infliximab (Remicade)
Chimeric anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha monoclonal antibody. Neutralizes cytokine TNF-alpha and inhibits its binding to TNF-alpha receptor. Mix in 250-mL normal saline for infusion over 2 h. Must use with low-protein-binding filter (1.2 micron or less). Indicated to reduce signs and symptoms of active ankylosing spondylitis.
Dosing
Adult
5 mg/kg IV infusion at 0, 2, and 6 wk as induction regimen, then 5 mg/kg q6wk for maintenance
IV infusion must be administered over at least 2 h; must use infusion set with in-line, sterile, nonpyrogenic, low-protein-binding filter (pore size <1.2 microns)
Pediatric
Not established
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Precautions
TNF-alpha modulates cellular immune responses; anti-TNF therapies, such as infliximab, may adversely affect normal immune responses and allow development of superinfections; more cases of lymphoma were observed in TNF alpha-blockers compared to controlled groups; may increase risk of reactivation of tuberculosis in patients with particular granulomatous infections
Cycloplegics
Instillation of a long-acting cycloplegic agent can relax any ciliary muscle spasm that can cause a deep aching pain and photophobia.
Scopolamine (Isopto Hyoscine)
Blocks the action of acetylcholine at parasympathetic sites in the smooth muscle, producing pupillary dilation (mydriasis) and paralysis of accommodation (cycloplegia).
Dosing
Adult
1-2 gtt qid
Pediatric
Not established
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; primary glaucoma or initial stages of the disease
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Avoid excessive systemic absorption by compressing lacrimal sac, using digital pressure for 1-3 min after instillation; may produce drowsiness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light (due to dilated pupils); observe caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity
Antivirals
Therapy of viral infections begins with mechanical debridement of the involved rim along with a rim of normal epithelium. This is followed by the topical instillation of antiviral medications (eg, vidarabine, idoxuridine, trifluridine).
Vidarabine (Vira-A)
Indicated as a topical idoxuridine or when toxic or hypersensitivity reactions to idoxuridine occur. Appears to interfere with the early steps of viral DNA synthesis.
If no signs of improvement are evident after 7 d or if complete reepithelialization has not occurred in 21 d, consider other forms of therapy. Some severe cases may require longer treatment. After reepithelialization has occurred, treat for an additional 7 d at a reduced dosage (eg, twice daily) to prevent recurrence.
Dosing
Adult
0.5-inch (1.25-cm) ribbon q3h into lower conjunctival sac(s) 5 times/d
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Viral resistance is possible but none reported
Idoxuridine (Herplex)
Used for epithelial infections (especially initial attacks). Infections characterized by the presence of a dendritic shape respond better to this medication than stromal infections.
Blocks the reproduction of HSV by producing incorrect DNA copies that prevent the virus from infecting or destroying the tissue.
Dosing
Adult
1 gtt q1h during the day and q2h at night initially
Continue until a definite improvement occurs, usually within 7 d
Reduce dosage to 1 gtt q2h during the day and q4h at night
To minimize recurrences, continue therapy at this reduced dosage for 3-7 d after healing appears complete; maximum treatment period is approximately 21 d
Alternatively, 1 gtt/min for 5 min; repeat q4h, day and night
Pediatric
Not established
Interactions
Coadministration with boric acid-containing solutions may result in a precipitate formation, which may cause irritation
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Since some strains of herpes simplex seem resistant, undertake another form of therapy if there is no lessening of fluorescein staining in 14 d; do not exceed recommended frequency and duration of administration
Antifungals
Broad-spectrum antifungal agents that cause minimal pain and corneal irritation are recommended. Natamycin is the first-line treatment in fungal infections of the cornea. Candidal infections refractory to natamycin may respond to amphotericin B, miconazole, fluconazole, and ketoconazole. Topical application of these drugs, however, is somewhat limited because most of them must be compounded.
Natamycin (Natacyn)
Predominantly fungicidal tetraene polyene antibiotic, derived from Streptomyces natalensis that possesses in vitro activity against a variety of yeast and filamentous fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium, and Penicillium species. Binds fungal cell membrane forming a polyene sterol complex that alters membrane permeability and depleting essential cellular constituents. Activity against fungi is dose related, but it is not effective in vitro against gram-negative or gram-positive bacteria. Generally, therapy should be continued for 14-21 d or until the fungal keratitis has resolved. In many cases, reducing the dosage gradually at 4-7 d intervals may help ensure that the organism has been eliminated.
Dosing
Adult
1 gtt into conjunctival sac q1-2h
Frequency of application usually can be reduced to 1 gtt 6-8 times/d after the first 3-4 d
Pediatric
Not established
Interactions
None reported
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Since some strains of herpes simplex seem resistant, undertake another form of therapy if there is no lessening of fluorescein staining in 14 d; do not exceed recommended frequency and duration of administration
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs)
Mechanism of action is believed to be through inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzyme that is essential in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis results in vasoconstriction and decreases in vascular permeability, leukocytosis, and intraocular pressure (IOP). These agents, however, have no significant effect on IOP.
Ibuprofen (Ibuprin, Motrin, Advil)
Usually the DOC for treatment of mild to moderate pain, if no contraindications exist.
Inhibits inflammatory reactions and pain, probably by decreasing the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which results in prostaglandin synthesis.
Dosing
Adult
200-400 mg PO q4-6h while symptoms persist; not to exceed 3.2 g/d
Pediatric
<6 months: Not established
6 months to 12 years: 10-70 mg/kg/d PO divided tid/qid
Start at lower end of dosing range and titrate upward to maximum of 2.4 g/d
>12 years: Administer as in adults
Interactions
Coadministration with aspirin increases risk of inducing serious NSAID-related adverse effects; probenecid may increase concentrations and, possibly, toxicity of NSAIDs; may decrease effect of hydralazine, captopril, and beta-blockers; may decrease diuretic effects of furosemide and thiazides; monitor PT closely (instruct patients to watch for signs of bleeding); may increase risk of methotrexate toxicity; phenytoin levels may be increased when administered concurrently
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity; peptic ulcer disease; recent GI bleeding or perforation; renal insufficiency; high risk of bleeding
Precautions
Pregnancy
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
D - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Caution in congestive heart failure, hypertension, and decreased renal and hepatic function; caution in anticoagulation abnormalities or during anticoagulant therapy
Analgesics
Pain control is essential to quality patient care, ensuring patient comfort, promoting pulmonary toilet, and containing sedating properties that benefit patients who experience mild or severe pain.
Oxycodone and acetaminophen (Percocet)
Drug combination indicated for the relief of moderate to severe pain.
Dosing
Adult
1-2 tab or cap PO q4-6h prn
Pediatric
0.05-0.15 mg/kg/dose PO; not to exceed 5 mg/dose of oxycodone q4-6h prn
Interactions
Phenothiazines may decrease analgesic effects; toxicity increases with coadministration of either CNS depressants or tricyclic antidepressants
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Precautions
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Duration of action may increase in elderly persons; be aware of total daily dose of acetaminophen patient is receiving; do not exceed 4000 mg/d of acetaminophen; higher doses may cause liver toxicity
Follow-up
Further Inpatient Care
- For patients with corneal ulcers, the emergency physician should contact an ophthalmologist while the patient is still in the emergency department. Timely consultation can be arranged at this time.
Complications
- The complications of corneal ulcer can be devastating. Corneal perforation, although rare, can occur. Corneal scarring may develop, resulting in partial or complete loss of vision. Anterior and posterior synechiae, glaucoma, and cataracts also can develop.
Prognosis
- Corneal ulcerations should improve daily and should heal with appropriate therapy.
- If healing does not occur or the ulcer extends, consider an alternate diagnosis and treatment.
Patient Education
- For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Eye and Vision Center. Also, see eMedicine's patient education articles Anatomy of the Eye, Corneal Ulcer, and Iritis.
Miscellaneous
Medicolegal Pitfalls
- Attempting to treat in the ED and not obtaining an immediate ophthalmology consultation
References
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Keywords
corneal ulceration, ulcerative keratitis, corneal ulcer, peripheral ulcerative keratitis, PUK, corneal infiltrative events, CIEs, corneal ulcer disease, Mooren's ulcer, Mooren ulcer, corneal melt
Contributor Information and Disclosures
Author
Trevor John Mills, MD, MPH, Chief of Emergency Medicine, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System; Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
Trevor John Mills, MD, MPH is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Emergency Medicine, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Public Health Association, Society for Academic Emergency Medicine, Southern Medical Association, and Wilderness Medical Society
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Medical Editor
William K Chiang, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine; Consulting Staff, Bellevue Hospital Center
William K Chiang, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Clinical Toxicology, American College of Medical Toxicology, and Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Pharmacy Editor
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD, Senior Pharmacy Editor, eMedicine
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Managing Editor
Douglas Lavenburg, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Christiana Care Health Systems
Douglas Lavenburg, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
CME Editor
John D Halamka, MD, MS, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Chief Information Officer, CareGroup Healthcare System and Harvard Medical School; Attending Physician, Division of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
John D Halamka, MD, MS is a member of the following medical societies: American College of Emergency Physicians, American Medical Informatics Association, Phi Beta Kappa, and Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Chief Editor
Barry E Brenner, MD, PhD, FACEP, Program Director, Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Professor, Internal Medicine, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve School of Medicine
Barry E Brenner, MD, PhD, FACEP is a member of the following medical societies: Alpha Omega Alpha, American Academy of Emergency Medicine, American College of Chest Physicians, American College of Emergency Physicians, American College of Physicians, American Heart Association, American Thoracic Society, Arkansas Medical Society, New York Academy of Medicine, New York Academy of Sciences, and Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
The authors and editors of eMedicine gratefully acknowledge the contributions of previous authors, Jerome FX Naradzay, MD, and Wesley S Grigsby, MD, to the development and writing of this article.
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