- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: February 13, 2025
At Blue Fin Vision®, our Harley Street eye clinic in London, we’re committed to providing expert care for all aspects of ocular health, including corneal ulcers. A corneal ulcer is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and treatment. This guide will explore what corneal ulcers are, their causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Understanding Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is an open sore or erosion on the cornea, the clear ‘window’ at the front of the eye. This condition can be potentially sight-threatening if not treated promptly and effectively. Corneal ulcers can vary in severity, from superficial erosions to deep, infected ulcers that may lead to corneal perforation in severe cases.
Corneal Ulcer Causes
Understanding the corneal ulcer causes is crucial for prevention and treatment. The most common causes include:
Infections
- Bacterial infections: Often associated with contact lens wear, especially when hygiene practices are not followed strictly.
- Viral infections: Herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus are common culprits.
- Fungal infections: These can occur after injury with organic matter, such as plant material.
- Parasitic infections: Acanthamoeba, found in contaminated water, can cause severe ulcers in contact lens wearers.
Other Causes
- Contact lens wear: Improper use or hygiene can increase the risk of ulcers.
- Eye injuries: Scratches or foreign bodies can create an entry point for infections.
- Dry eye syndrome: Severe cases can lead to corneal damage and ulceration.
- Underlying eye conditions: Such as Bell’s palsy or eyelid abnormalities that prevent proper eye closure.
- Vitamin A deficiency: Although rare in the UK, it can lead to corneal ulceration.
Corneal Ulcer Symptoms
Recognising the corneal ulcer symptoms early is vital for prompt treatment. Common signs include:
- Eye pain: Often described as severe or a constant ache.
- Redness: The eye may appear bloodshot or inflamed.
- Sensitivity to light: Photophobia is a common complaint.
- Blurred vision: Vision may become cloudy or distorted.
- Tearing: Excessive watering of the eye is common.
- Discharge: The eye may produce pus or thick discharge.
- Foreign body sensation: A feeling that something is in the eye.
- Visible white spot: A round white spot may be visible on the cornea.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate attention from an eye specialist. At Blue Fin Vision®, our expert team in London’s Harley Street is equipped to provide prompt and accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcers
At our state-of-the-art eye clinic, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify and assess corneal ulcers:
- Slit-lamp examination with digital imaging: Provides ultra-high magnification analysis of ulcer depth and stromal involvement
- Fluorescein staining with blue-light assessment: Precisely maps epithelial defects and tracks healing progression
- Corneal scrape microbiological testing:
- Gram staining: Immediate identification of bacterial pathogens
- Culture & antibiotic susceptibility profiling: Guides targeted antimicrobial therapy
- Specular microscopy:
- Detects acanthamoeba cysts through quantitative endothelial analysis
- Assesses corneal endothelial health in chronic ulceration
- Anterior segment OCT:
- High-resolution cross-sectional imaging of ulcer depth
- Early detection of impending perforation
Early diagnosis is key to preventing complications and preserving vision.
Corneal Ulcer Treatment
Corneal ulcer treatment is tailored to the specific cause and severity of the condition. At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer comprehensive treatment plans that may include:
Medication
- Antibiotic eye drops: For bacterial infections, often administered frequently in the initial stages.
- Antiviral medications: Used for ulcers caused by herpes or other viruses.
- Antifungal treatments: Prescribed for fungal infections.
- Anti-inflammatory drops: To reduce inflammation and prevent complications.
- Pain relief: Oral painkillers or special eye drops may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
Supportive Care
- Eye patch: In some cases, to protect the eye and promote healing.
- Lubricating eye drops: To keep the eye moist and comfortable.
- Contact lens cessation: If you wear contact lenses, you’ll need to stop using them during treatment.
Advanced Treatments
- Corneal cross-linking: A procedure that can help strengthen the cornea in certain cases.
- Amniotic membrane grafting: Used for severe ulcers to promote healing.
- Corneal transplantation: In cases where the ulcer has caused significant scarring or perforation.
Prevention and Aftercare
Preventing corneal ulcers is crucial for maintaining eye health. At Blue Fin Vision®, we advise our patients to:
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially when handling contact lenses.
- Follow proper contact lens care and wear schedules.
- Protect eyes from injury during high-risk activities.
- Seek prompt attention for any eye injuries or infections.
- Attend regular eye check-ups to monitor overall eye health.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Corneal Care?
At our Harley Street eye clinic in London, we offer:
- Expert specialists: Our team includes corneal experts with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing corneal ulcers.
- Advanced technology: We utilise the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies for precise care.
- Personalised treatment plans: We tailor our approach to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.
- Comprehensive care: From initial diagnosis to long-term management, we provide continuous support throughout your eye health journey.
Take Action for Your Eye Health
Corneal ulcers can significantly impact your vision and quality of life, but with early detection and proper management, many cases can be effectively treated. If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision or eye comfort, don’t hesitate to seek professional care.
Contact Blue Fin Vision® today to schedule a comprehensive eye examination at our London Harley Street clinic. Let us help you maintain clear vision and optimal eye health for years to come.
