eye disorders
Corneal Ulcer
Introduction
A corneal ulcer is a corneal epithelial defect with underlying inflammation usually due to invasion by bacteria, fungi, viruses, orAcanthamoeba. It can be initiated by mechanical trauma or nutritional deficiencies, and uncontrolled inflammation can produce corneal necrosis. Symptoms are progressive conjunctival redness, foreign body sensation, ache, photophobia, and lacrimation. Diagnosis is by slit-lamp examination,fluoresceinstaining, and microbial studies. Treatment with topical antimicrobials and often dilating drops is urgent and should be referred to an ophthalmologist. (See also Introduction to Corneal Disorders .) 