return to previous pageCORNEAClinical Features A corneal lesion from any cause results in :- pain, photophobia and a red eye
- Vision may be reduced
Examination- Inspection using magnification may reveal corneal opacities, a corneal foreign body, Dendritic ulcer ; a corneal ulcer stained fluorescein ; corneal abrasion or erosion ; corneal abrasion stained ; corneal Scar (alkali)
- Inspection after staining with fluorescein will demonstrate any epithelial defect.
Lesions include:
Herpetic Keratitis (Dendritic Ulcer): Herpes simplex infection results in a branching ulcer Dendritic ulcer
herpetic-dendritic-ulcer Dendritic Ulcer stainedTherapy
– Oc Acyclovir
Complications - recurrence
- corneal scarring
- iritis and deep keratitis
NOTE: Corticosteroids are contra indicated for they cause rapid progression and can lead to corneal perforation.
Corneal Abrasion: A geographic area of epithelial loss.
Corneal abrasionTherapy: – occlusion with a firm pad results in rapid resolution
Corneal Foreign Body: Corneal FB Will be noted on inspection or following fluorescein stain
CORNEAL fbTherapy: – Amethocaine drop for anaesthesia and removal with a fine hypodermic needle
- Occlude until ulcer has healed
Viral Keratoconjunctivitis: Associated with the conjunctivitis may be a punctate keratitis with subepithelial infiltrates