eye disorders
Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Introduction
Herpes simplex keratitis is corneal infection with herpes simplex virus. It may involve the iris. Symptoms and signs include foreign body sensation, lacrimation, photophobia, and conjunctival hyperemia. Recurrences are common and may lead to corneal hypoesthesia, ulceration, permanent scarring, opacification, thinning of the corneal stroma, and decreased vision. Diagnosis is based on the characteristic dendritic corneal ulcer and sometimes viral culture. Treatment is with topical or systemic antiviral drugs. Herpes simplex keratitis usually affects the corneal surface but sometimes involves the corneal stroma (the deeper layers of the cornea) or the inner corneal surface (endothelium), anterior chamber, and iris. Stromal involvement is probably an immunologic response to the virus. As with all Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections , there is a primary infection, followed by a latent phase, in which the virus enters the nerve roots. Latent virus may reactivate, causing recurrent symptoms. Herpes simplex keratitis is a major cause of blindness worldwide. 