Inflammation of the cornea, usually due to infection. Bacterial infection is pre-disposed by contact lens wear, trauma, abnormalities of the corneal surface, dry eye, inability to close the eye and tear duct blockage. Viral infections include herpes simplex and herpes zoster. Most cases of acanthamoeba keratitis occur in contact lens wearers. Marginal keratitis usually occurs in response to associated blepharitis. Systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may also cause corneal inflammation or thinning.
Clinical Features
Painful, red eye
Photophobia
Watering
Blurred vision
Discharge and/or a visible white/yellow area on cornea are seen in bacterial infections
Herpes zoster keratitis usually has an associated skin rash (herpes zoster ophthalmicus)
