What are the main types of eye herpes. How is eye herpes diagnosed and treated. What triggers eye herpes outbreaks. What are the key symptoms of ocular herpes to watch for.

Understanding Eye Herpes: Causes and Types

Eye herpes, also known as ocular herpes or herpetic eye disease, is an infection of the eye caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of HSV that can affect the eyes:

• HSV-1: More commonly associated with oral herpes (cold sores) and the primary cause of eye infections
• HSV-2: Typically causes genital herpes but can also affect the eyes

HSV is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected individuals, particularly through their saliva or nasal secretions. Once contracted, the virus can lie dormant in nerve cells and reactivate later, traveling to the eye and causing symptoms.

How does eye herpes develop?

Eye herpes often develops when a dormant herpes virus becomes active and travels along nerve pathways to the eye. This reactivation can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Fever
• Stress
• Sunburn
• Major surgical or dental procedures
• Trauma or severe injury

It’s important to note that not everyone who contracts the herpes virus will develop eye herpes. However, those who do may experience recurrent outbreaks throughout their lives.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Eye Herpes

Eye herpes can manifest in various ways, often affecting one eye more severely than the other. Common symptoms include:

• Feeling of something in the eye
• Headaches
• Light sensitivity
• Redness
• Tearing
• Blurred vision (in severe cases)

In some instances, herpes sores may appear on the eyelids, resembling a rash with blisters. These blisters typically form crusts and heal within 3-7 days.

Can eye herpes cause pain?

Interestingly, eye herpes often doesn’t cause significant pain, even when the eye appears inflamed. This characteristic can help distinguish it from other eye conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

Types of Eye Herpes and Their Impact

Eye herpes can affect different parts of the eye, leading to various conditions:

Epithelial Keratitis

This is the most common form of eye herpes, affecting the transparent front part of the eye (the cornea). It typically responds well to treatment and rarely causes long-term vision problems.

Stromal Keratitis

A more serious condition, stromal keratitis occurs when the infection reaches deeper layers of the cornea. It can cause scarring, potentially leading to permanent vision impairment.

Understanding the type of eye herpes is crucial for proper treatment and management of the condition.

Diagnosing Eye Herpes: What to Expect

Ophthalmologists diagnose eye herpes through a combination of methods:

1. Medical history review
2. Symptom assessment
3. Physical examination of the eye
4. Slit lamp examination
5. Cell culture (in some cases)

What is a slit lamp examination?

A slit lamp is a special microscope that allows the ophthalmologist to closely examine the surface of the eye and, if necessary, the eyelid. This detailed view helps in identifying characteristic herpes lesions and assessing the extent of the infection.

In cases where the infection has reached deeper eye layers, additional tests may be needed to measure eye pressure and inspect internal structures.

Treatment Options for Eye Herpes

The treatment of eye herpes aims to control the infection, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. Common approaches include:

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral drugs are the primary treatment for eye herpes. They can be administered as:

• Oral tablets
• Eye drops
• Ointments

These medications help suppress viral replication and speed up healing. The specific antiviral and duration of treatment depend on the severity and location of the infection.

Supportive Care

Additional measures to manage symptoms may include:

• Artificial tears to lubricate the eye
• Cold compresses to reduce inflammation
• Pain relievers for discomfort

Is long-term treatment necessary for eye herpes?

In some cases, particularly for recurrent or severe infections, long-term suppressive antiviral therapy may be recommended. This approach aims to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Preventing Eye Herpes Outbreaks

While it’s not always possible to prevent eye herpes, certain measures can help reduce the risk of outbreaks:

• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Protecting eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses
• Maintaining good overall health and a strong immune system
• Avoiding close contact with individuals during active herpes outbreaks

Can lifestyle changes help prevent eye herpes recurrences?

Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle can potentially reduce the frequency of outbreaks. This includes getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress effectively.

Potential Complications of Eye Herpes

While most cases of eye herpes resolve without long-term consequences, some potential complications can occur:

• Corneal scarring
• Vision impairment
• Increased risk of glaucoma
• Recurrent infections

How often do eye herpes infections recur?

The recurrence rate of eye herpes varies among individuals. Some people may experience only one episode, while others may have multiple outbreaks over their lifetime. Factors influencing recurrence include the immune system’s strength and exposure to triggering factors.

Regular follow-ups with an ophthalmologist are crucial for monitoring the condition and preventing complications.

Living with Eye Herpes: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with eye herpes can be challenging, but there are ways to cope effectively:

• Educate yourself about the condition
• Follow your treatment plan diligently
• Communicate openly with your healthcare provider
• Join support groups or online communities
• Practice good eye hygiene

How can one maintain good eye hygiene with eye herpes?

Maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial when living with eye herpes. This includes:

• Washing hands frequently, especially before touching the eyes
• Avoiding sharing towels, washcloths, or eye makeup
• Replacing eye makeup regularly
• Cleaning contact lenses properly (if worn)

By following these practices, individuals can help reduce the risk of spreading the infection or introducing additional pathogens to the affected eye.

Research and Future Perspectives in Eye Herpes Treatment

Ongoing research in the field of ocular herpes is focused on developing more effective treatments and potential vaccines. Some areas of interest include:

• Novel antiviral compounds with improved efficacy
• Gene therapy approaches to target the latent virus
• Immunomodulatory treatments to enhance the body’s response to the virus
• Development of therapeutic vaccines

What progress has been made in eye herpes vaccine development?

While there is currently no approved vaccine for eye herpes, researchers are making progress in this area. Several vaccine candidates are in various stages of development and clinical trials. These potential vaccines aim to either prevent initial infection or reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences in those already infected.

As research continues, it offers hope for improved management and potential prevention of eye herpes in the future.

Differentiating Eye Herpes from Other Eye Conditions

Eye herpes symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other eye conditions. It’s important to understand the differences:

Eye Herpes vs. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

While both conditions can cause redness and discomfort, conjunctivitis typically affects both eyes and may cause more discharge. Eye herpes often affects one eye more severely and may produce blisters on the eyelid.

Eye Herpes vs. Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection

The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles, can also affect the eye. However, it typically produces a distinctive rash pattern and is more likely to cause pain compared to eye herpes.

How can one distinguish between these conditions?

While it’s challenging for individuals to self-diagnose, some key differences can help:

• Eye herpes often affects one eye more than the other
• Herpes lesions on the eye surface have a characteristic branching pattern
• Eye herpes typically causes less pain than expected given the eye’s appearance

However, proper diagnosis should always be made by an eye care professional to ensure appropriate treatment.

The Psychological Impact of Eye Herpes

Living with eye herpes can have significant psychological effects on individuals. Some common challenges include:

• Anxiety about potential outbreaks
• Concerns about vision loss
• Social stigma associated with herpes infections
• Stress from managing a chronic condition

How can individuals cope with the emotional aspects of eye herpes?

Coping strategies for the psychological impact of eye herpes include:

• Seeking counseling or therapy
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Joining support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges
• Educating friends and family about the condition to reduce stigma

Remember, eye herpes is a manageable condition, and with proper care and support, individuals can maintain a good quality of life.

Eye Herpes in Special Populations

While eye herpes can affect anyone, certain groups may face unique challenges:

Eye Herpes in Children

Children with eye herpes may require special attention due to:

• Difficulty in communicating symptoms
• Challenges in administering eye medications
• Potential impact on vision development

Eye Herpes in Pregnant Women

Pregnant women with eye herpes need careful management to:

• Ensure safe treatment options
• Prevent transmission to the baby during childbirth
• Monitor for potential complications

Eye Herpes in Immunocompromised Individuals

Those with weakened immune systems may experience:

• More frequent or severe outbreaks
• Increased risk of complications
• Need for more aggressive treatment approaches

How does management differ for these special populations?

Management strategies for special populations with eye herpes often involve:

• More frequent monitoring and follow-ups
• Tailored treatment plans considering individual health status
• Collaboration between ophthalmologists and other specialists
• Enhanced patient and caregiver education

Healthcare providers must consider these unique factors when developing treatment plans for individuals in these groups.

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Eye Herpes

While nutrition alone cannot cure or prevent eye herpes, a balanced diet can support overall eye health and immune function. Consider incorporating the following nutrients:

• Vitamin A: Supports corneal health
• Vitamin C: Boosts immune function
• Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant
• Omega-3 fatty acids: May help reduce inflammation
• Zinc: Supports immune system and eye health

Can specific foods help manage eye herpes?

While no specific food can prevent or cure eye herpes, a diet rich in the following may support eye health and immune function:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Colorful fruits and vegetables
• Fatty fish
• Nuts and seeds
• Lean proteins

Always consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you’re taking medications for eye herpes.

Technological Advancements in Eye Herpes Diagnosis and Treatment

Recent technological developments are improving the diagnosis and treatment of eye herpes:

Advanced Imaging Techniques

New imaging technologies, such as high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT), allow for more detailed visualization of the cornea and early detection of herpes-related changes.

Improved Drug Delivery Systems

Researchers are developing novel drug delivery systems, including nanoparticle-based treatments and sustained-release implants, to improve the efficacy of antiviral medications.

Telemedicine in Eye Herpes Management

Telemedicine platforms are enabling remote consultations and follow-ups, making it easier for patients to access care and for doctors to monitor treatment progress.

How are these advancements changing the landscape of eye herpes care?

These technological advancements are revolutionizing eye herpes care by:

• Enabling earlier and more accurate diagnosis
• Improving treatment efficacy and reducing side effects
• Enhancing patient convenience and access to specialized care
• Facilitating long-term monitoring and management of the condition

As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to further improve outcomes for individuals with eye herpes.

Eye herpes: Pictures, symptoms, and types

In addition to causing cold sores, the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause sores to appear on the eyes. When herpes symptoms affect the eyes, it is known as eye herpes, ocular herpes, or herpetic eye disease.

Eye herpes may be a cause for concern because it can have uncomfortable symptoms. In rare instances, eye herpes can affect the deeper layers of a person’s eyes and their vision.

In this article, we examine the types of herpes that can affect someone’s eye and the symptoms that may occur. We also look at the diagnosis of eye herpes and the treatment options.

Share on PinterestEye herpes is also known as ocular herpes or herpetic eye disease.
Image credit: Powerfloh, 2013.

There are two major types of HSV:

Type

1

Herpes type 1 (HSV-1) commonly affects the face and is responsible for symptoms that include cold sores, which some people refer to as fever blisters.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, HSV-1 is more likely than HSV-2 to cause eye infections.

Type 2

Herpes type 2 (HSV-2) is the sexually transmitted form of the virus. While this type mainly causes symptoms on the genitals, it can also affect the eyes.

A person will typically contract either form of the virus as a result of skin-to-skin contact with someone who already has the infection.

The virus often lays dormant in the nerve cells and can travel along the nerves to the eye upon activation.

Most people have contracted the virus at some point in their lives, but not everyone gets symptoms as a result.

When a person gets herpetic eye disease, they can experience a variety of symptoms. These can sometimes occur in both eyes, but they usually affect one eye more than the other.

Some of the symptoms depend on the affected part of the eye. Examples of these symptoms include:

• the feeling of something being in the eye
• headaches
• light sensitivity
• redness
• tearing

Sometimes, a person may also experience herpes sores on top of the eyelids. These may resemble a rash with blisters. The blisters will form crusts that usually heal within 3–7 days.

If the herpes virus affects the cornea, the inside of the eye, or the retina, a person may find that their vision becomes reduced.

Typically, eye herpes does not cause a lot of pain, even though a person’s eye may look painful.

The symptoms of an HSV infection affecting the eye may be very similar to those of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. However, a varicella-zoster infection is more likely to result in a rash with a distinctive pattern that occurs in only one eye.

Another condition that can have similar symptoms is pinkeye, which is also known as conjunctivitis.

Share on PinterestFever and stress may trigger a dormant virus to start reproducing.
Image credit: Burntfingers, 2015.

The herpes virus can spread via the nasal secretions or spit of a person with the infection. The likelihood may be higher when a person has a cold sore.

The virus within the secretions can then travel through the body’s nerves, which can include those in the eye.

In some cases, the virus enters the body and does not cause any problems or symptoms. Doctors describe this form of the virus as lying dormant.

Certain triggers can sometimes cause a dormant virus to start reproducing and cause eye irritation. Examples of these triggers include:

• fever
• major surgical or dental procedures
• stress
• sunburn
• trauma or severe injury

The herpes virus can be highly contagious. However, not everyone who contracts or comes into contact with the herpes virus will get eye herpes.

Ophthalmologists, or eye doctors, diagnose herpetic eye disease by taking the person’s medical history and asking them about their symptoms. They may ask the person when they first noticed their symptoms and what makes them worse or better.

The ophthalmologist will also conduct a physical examination of the eye. This examination will involve using a special microscope known as a slit lamp to visualize the eye’s surface and, potentially, the eyelid.

These professionals can usually diagnose eye herpes by looking at the sores. If the infection has reached the deeper layers of the eye, they will need to use special instruments to measure the eye pressure. They will also need to inspect the deeper eye layers whenever possible.

As part of the diagnosis, an ophthalmologist may also take a small cell sample known as a culture from a blistered area. They will then send this sample to a lab for testing for the presence of HSV.

For the most part, eye herpes affects the transparent front part of the eye. This condition is known as epithelial keratitis.

If eye herpes affects the deeper layers of the cornea, it is known as stromal keratitis. This condition is more concerning to eye doctors because it can cause scarring on the cornea, which can permanently affect a person’s vision.

Share on PinterestA doctor may prescribe an antiviral eye drop.

No cure currently exists for herpetic eye disease. Instead, an eye doctor can prescribe medications that reduce the effects and symptoms of the condition. The location of eye herpes tends to determine the treatment options.

Eyelids

Doctors will prescribe topical ointments, such as an antiviral or antibiotic ointment, for a person to apply gently to their eyelids.

While antibiotic ointments will not treat the herpes infection, they will keep other bacteria from entering the open, blistering areas of the eyelid.

Outer eye

layers

If the eye herpes only affects the outermost layers of the eye, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral eye drop or an oral antiviral medication, such as acyclovir (Zovirax). These help reduce the effects of the virus and could reduce the duration of symptoms.

Deeper

eye layers

If the herpes virus has affected deeper layers of the eye, an eye doctor may prescribe antiviral eye drops and oral medications.

They may also prescribe steroid eye drops. These help reduce eye inflammation that could lead to increased eye pressure.

Prevention

As eye herpes can cause further infections, some doctors may recommend taking antiviral medicines on a regular basis to reduce the risk of getting eye herpes again.

Recurrent herpetic eye infections can lead to greater eye damage, which is why doctors want to prevent their recurrence.

Doctors may recommend that a person take an antiviral medication a few days before they have surgery so that they can prevent the stress of the surgery from triggering a herpes outbreak.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, doctors diagnose about 50,000 new cases of eye herpes each year in the United States. While there is no cure for eye herpes, treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms.

If a person has recurrent eye infections or starts to experience vision loss, they should seek an appointment with an eye specialist for an assessment and advice on additional treatments.

Eye herpes: Pictures, symptoms, and types

In addition to causing cold sores, the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause sores to appear on the eyes. When herpes symptoms affect the eyes, it is known as eye herpes, ocular herpes, or herpetic eye disease.

Eye herpes may be a cause for concern because it can have uncomfortable symptoms. In rare instances, eye herpes can affect the deeper layers of a person’s eyes and their vision.

In this article, we examine the types of herpes that can affect someone’s eye and the symptoms that may occur. We also look at the diagnosis of eye herpes and the treatment options.

Share on PinterestEye herpes is also known as ocular herpes or herpetic eye disease.
Image credit: Powerfloh, 2013.

There are two major types of HSV:

Type

1

Herpes type 1 (HSV-1) commonly affects the face and is responsible for symptoms that include cold sores, which some people refer to as fever blisters.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, HSV-1 is more likely than HSV-2 to cause eye infections.

Type 2

Herpes type 2 (HSV-2) is the sexually transmitted form of the virus. While this type mainly causes symptoms on the genitals, it can also affect the eyes.

A person will typically contract either form of the virus as a result of skin-to-skin contact with someone who already has the infection.

The virus often lays dormant in the nerve cells and can travel along the nerves to the eye upon activation.

Most people have contracted the virus at some point in their lives, but not everyone gets symptoms as a result.

When a person gets herpetic eye disease, they can experience a variety of symptoms. These can sometimes occur in both eyes, but they usually affect one eye more than the other.

Some of the symptoms depend on the affected part of the eye. Examples of these symptoms include:

• the feeling of something being in the eye
• headaches
• light sensitivity
• redness
• tearing

Sometimes, a person may also experience herpes sores on top of the eyelids. These may resemble a rash with blisters. The blisters will form crusts that usually heal within 3–7 days.

If the herpes virus affects the cornea, the inside of the eye, or the retina, a person may find that their vision becomes reduced.

Typically, eye herpes does not cause a lot of pain, even though a person’s eye may look painful.

The symptoms of an HSV infection affecting the eye may be very similar to those of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. However, a varicella-zoster infection is more likely to result in a rash with a distinctive pattern that occurs in only one eye.

Another condition that can have similar symptoms is pinkeye, which is also known as conjunctivitis.

Share on PinterestFever and stress may trigger a dormant virus to start reproducing.
Image credit: Burntfingers, 2015.

The herpes virus can spread via the nasal secretions or spit of a person with the infection. The likelihood may be higher when a person has a cold sore.

The virus within the secretions can then travel through the body’s nerves, which can include those in the eye.

In some cases, the virus enters the body and does not cause any problems or symptoms. Doctors describe this form of the virus as lying dormant.

Certain triggers can sometimes cause a dormant virus to start reproducing and cause eye irritation. Examples of these triggers include:

• fever
• major surgical or dental procedures
• stress
• sunburn
• trauma or severe injury

The herpes virus can be highly contagious. However, not everyone who contracts or comes into contact with the herpes virus will get eye herpes.

Ophthalmologists, or eye doctors, diagnose herpetic eye disease by taking the person’s medical history and asking them about their symptoms. They may ask the person when they first noticed their symptoms and what makes them worse or better.

The ophthalmologist will also conduct a physical examination of the eye. This examination will involve using a special microscope known as a slit lamp to visualize the eye’s surface and, potentially, the eyelid.

These professionals can usually diagnose eye herpes by looking at the sores. If the infection has reached the deeper layers of the eye, they will need to use special instruments to measure the eye pressure. They will also need to inspect the deeper eye layers whenever possible.

As part of the diagnosis, an ophthalmologist may also take a small cell sample known as a culture from a blistered area. They will then send this sample to a lab for testing for the presence of HSV.

For the most part, eye herpes affects the transparent front part of the eye. This condition is known as epithelial keratitis.

If eye herpes affects the deeper layers of the cornea, it is known as stromal keratitis. This condition is more concerning to eye doctors because it can cause scarring on the cornea, which can permanently affect a person’s vision.

Share on PinterestA doctor may prescribe an antiviral eye drop.

No cure currently exists for herpetic eye disease. Instead, an eye doctor can prescribe medications that reduce the effects and symptoms of the condition. The location of eye herpes tends to determine the treatment options.

Eyelids

Doctors will prescribe topical ointments, such as an antiviral or antibiotic ointment, for a person to apply gently to their eyelids.

While antibiotic ointments will not treat the herpes infection, they will keep other bacteria from entering the open, blistering areas of the eyelid.

Outer eye

layers

If the eye herpes only affects the outermost layers of the eye, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral eye drop or an oral antiviral medication, such as acyclovir (Zovirax). These help reduce the effects of the virus and could reduce the duration of symptoms.

Deeper

eye layers

If the herpes virus has affected deeper layers of the eye, an eye doctor may prescribe antiviral eye drops and oral medications.

They may also prescribe steroid eye drops. These help reduce eye inflammation that could lead to increased eye pressure.

Prevention

As eye herpes can cause further infections, some doctors may recommend taking antiviral medicines on a regular basis to reduce the risk of getting eye herpes again.

Recurrent herpetic eye infections can lead to greater eye damage, which is why doctors want to prevent their recurrence.

Doctors may recommend that a person take an antiviral medication a few days before they have surgery so that they can prevent the stress of the surgery from triggering a herpes outbreak.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, doctors diagnose about 50,000 new cases of eye herpes each year in the United States. While there is no cure for eye herpes, treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms.

If a person has recurrent eye infections or starts to experience vision loss, they should seek an appointment with an eye specialist for an assessment and advice on additional treatments.

Herpes on the eyelid, treatment, symptoms and causes

Viral diseases can affect almost any part of the body. Strains are able to be in the human body in a “sleeping” state and are activated when favorable conditions occur. One of the most common problems of this type is herpes. Most often, it appears on the lips, but it can also affect other organs, such as the eyes.

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact a specialist.

Symptoms of the disease

The appearance of rashes on the eyelids does not threaten life, but significantly reduces its quality. Herpes formations have an unattractive appearance, make blinking difficult, cause pain and discomfort. Most often, the disease affects the upper eyelid and eyebrow area. Symptoms of this form of pathology are:

• the appearance of small blisters filled with a clear or turbid liquid;
• sore, itching, burning;
• swelling of the eyelid, in some cases – the entire half of the face;
• the appearance of a blind spot, decreased visual acuity;
• swollen lymph nodes;
• pain when moving pupils, blinking, turning head;
• temperature increase.

Properly selected treatment of herpes on the eyelid of the eye allows you to get rid of most of the manifestations. Sometimes the symptoms are supplemented by signs of general intoxication – nausea, weakness, chills.

Causes of herpes on the eyelid

According to statistics, more than 75% of the world’s population is a carrier of this virus. However, its presence is not always able to lead to the development of the disease. The virus is activated only when the body is in a vulnerable state. The reasons for this may be as follows:

• general decrease in immunity;
• beriberi;
• allergic reactions;
• long-term use of antibiotics;

Herpes is transmitted by airborne droplets, household and sexual contact. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, HIV carriers, cancer patients who have undergone chemotherapy are especially vulnerable to it.

Which doctor should I contact?

The need to treat herpes on the eyelid is due to its severe course. The disease greatly affects the general well-being, reduces performance, does not allow you to lead a normal life. In addition, it is fraught with complications. A doctor will help to cope with the problem:

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He will conduct an examination and, if necessary, give referrals to other specialists – an ophthalmologist and a dermatologist. To correctly determine the essence and root causes of the disease, the doctor will ask the patient the following questions:

1. What symptoms cause concern?
2. How often does the disease relapse?
3. What complications does she have?
4. Is the patient prone to allergies?
5. Does he have problems with his eyes or skin?
6. Did he receive any symptomatic treatment?

Laboratory tests of blood and scrapings from the site of the rash are used as diagnostic methods. If the disease spreads to the eye itself, an ultrasound examination may be performed.

Treatment of herpes on the eyelid

Therapeutic procedures are selected individually depending on what exactly provoked the development of the disease. Treatment is carried out in a complex way, since it is necessary to influence not only the external manifestations of herpes, but also its prerequisites. The therapy consists of the following steps:

• treatment of rashes with special ointments and gels;
• application of anti-inflammatory antibacterial drops;
• taking painkillers, decongestants and antipyretics;
• impact on the root cause of the disease – allergies, inflammation, decreased immunity.

During treatment, it is necessary to give up bad habits, avoid hypothermia, reduce the time spent working with a computer or papers. You should also balance your diet, supplementing it with foods high in protein and vitamins.

Herpetic keratitis: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Herpetic keratitis is a disease of a viral nature that develops as a result of the herpes simplex virus entering the cornea, subject to a decrease in local immune defense.

The provoking factors of the disease are:

• influenza and a group of colds,
• corneal trauma,
• hypothermia,
• too much exposure to the sun,
• odontogenic infections,
• allergic reactions,
• corticosteroid treatment,
• a complex of the listed factors.

Symptoms of herpetic keratitis:

• redness of the eye,
• lacrimation,
• severe pain syndrome.

Also, the patient may notice a change in visual acuity.

Diagnostic methods:

• Clinical diagnosis is based on questioning the patient, examination with a slit lamp.
• Laboratory diagnostics involves the use of the immunofluorescence method.

Bullous painful keratopathy is a degenerative disease of the cornea that occurs due to the loss of the surface epithelial layer that performs a protective function.

The disease is characterized by the development of corneal changes:

• edema,
• cloudiness,
• vesicle formation (the name of the disease comes from the Greek bulla – vesicle).

Clinical manifestations of the disease:

• blurred vision,
• sharp pains,
• lacrimation and photophobia.

The following types of disease are distinguished:

• congenital,
• purchased (secondary).

Acquired endothelial-epithelial dystrophy often develops as a result of traumatic surgical interventions on the eyeball.

Diagnosis:

• slit lamp examination,
• Mirror microscopy of the corneal endothelium.

Treatment of the disease:

• conservative – anti-inflammatory and analgesic drops, gels,
• surgical – penetrating corneal transplantation using cryopexy of defective endothelial tissue, as well as layer-by-layer keratoplasty.

Recurrent corneal erosion is a disease caused by a herpes infection in the eye.

The provoking factor is often trauma (getting into the eye of a branch, paper, dust). The disease proceeds with periods of painful relapses, which are replaced by remissions.

The disease often develops in women against the background of immunodeficiency, which was caused by previous hormone therapy (artificial insemination, infertility treatment, etc.)

Characteristic symptoms:

• pains, predominantly nocturnal and morning,
• redness of the eyes,
• lacrimation and photophobia.

Basic principles of treatment:

• antiviral drugs (Acyclovir, Poludan),
• agents for stimulating regeneration (“Solcoseryl”).

The method of anti-herpes vaccination is also used.

Surgical treatment:

• layered and penetrating keratoplasty,
• microdiathermocoagulation,
• autocytokine therapy (intracameral, external).

A combination of surgical treatment in combination with anti-herpes vaccination has a good effect.

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