Treatment of Corneal Inflammation

A keratitis is a serious ophthalmic condition that should always be treated by a specialist. This disease refers to the inflammation of the cornea, which is the outer layer of the eye, and can develop for various reasons, including infections. As a result of the inflammation, damage to the corneal tissue may occur, leading to vision problems. It is important to recognize the symptoms and seek medical attention as soon as possible, as treating keratitis requires a professional approach.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Keratitis

The diagnosis of keratitis typically begins with a thorough ophthalmic examination. The specialist performs various tests, including examining the eye surface and taking necessary swabs. The swabs allow for the identification of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, that cause the inflammation. After establishing the diagnosis, treatment is initiated based on the type of pathogen.

The first step in treatment often involves removing contact lenses, as wearing them can exacerbate the inflammation. Depending on the cause of the inflammation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, antiviral agents, or antifungal medications may be necessary. Among antibiotics, neomycin, tobramycin, and gentamicin are the most commonly used, while acyclovir may prove to be an effective medication for viral infections.

During treatment, the specialist monitors the progression of the inflammation and adjusts the therapy as needed. Depending on the severity of the inflammation, both local and systemic medications are often used during the treatment period. Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications can also play a role in the treatment to alleviate the patient’s discomfort.

Treatment of Keratitis Caused by Different Pathogens

The treatment of keratitis can vary significantly depending on the type of pathogen. In the case of bacterial infections, treatment begins with broad-spectrum antibiotics until laboratory tests reveal the pathogen. Following this, the therapy switches to targeted antibiotics, allowing for more effective treatment. Corticosteroids may also be used to reduce inflammation, especially in severe cases.

For viral keratitis, such as inflammation caused by Herpes simplex, antiviral medications like acyclovir play a key role in treatment. In cases of primary infection, the use of corticosteroids is not recommended; however, they can be combined with antiviral medications when treating recurrent infections.

The treatment of fungal infections begins after identifying the pathogen. Natamycin and other antifungal agents, such as Amphotericin B, are often used locally. It is important to note that corticosteroids should not be used in cases of fungal keratitis, as they can exacerbate the inflammation.

Complications and Long-Term Consequences of Keratitis

The complications of keratitis can have a serious impact on vision. After treatment, scars often form in the cornea, which can impair visual acuity. Amblyopia, which leads to decreased vision, may require a corneal transplant if the inflammation has completely resolved.

During a corneal transplant, the patient’s cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea. This procedure depends on several factors, such as the surgical technique, the condition of the other tissues in the eye, and the immune response. For a successful outcome, it is essential that the inflammation has completely subsided before the surgery.

If conservative treatments prove ineffective or the inflammation worsens, corneal transplantation may be the best solution for restoring vision. During the procedure, a new, healthy cornea is implanted in place of the damaged one, promoting healing and improving vision. Continuous monitoring by specialists and appropriate treatment are essential for the successful management of corneal inflammation.