Microbial keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. It is a sight-threatening emergency that needs prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Causes and risk factors
Contact lens wear, corneal trauma, ocular surface disease, and previous eye surgery increase the risk of infection. Bacterial keratitis is most common, but severe cases can also be due to fungi or Acanthamoeba.
- Symptoms include pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision
- May cause a visible white or grey corneal infiltrate or ulcer
- Delay in treatment can lead to corneal scarring and permanent vision loss
Diagnosis and treatment
Assessment includes corneal examination and often corneal scrapings to identify the organism. Intensive topical antimicrobial drops are usually started immediately under specialist supervision, often in a setting such as general ophthalmology.
