Suppurative Superficial Keratitis (Corneal Ulcers)

Definition Localized Necrosis of Sup. Stroma with destruction of overlying Epith.

Etiology

  • Predisposing Factors
  • Precipitating Factors
  • Causative Organisms

Predisposing Factors

Local

  • a) Trauma

    • Abrasion (Gono & Diph can invade normal epithelium)
    • FB, Rubbing lashes, PTDs, CL
  • b) Loss of corneal sensations

  • c) Ocular causes (xerosis, A deficiency, Lagoph.)

  • d) Prolonged use of Steroids

General

  • Malnutrition
  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy
  • Liver & Renal Failure

Precipitating Factors

Infection of nearby structures

Causative Organisms

  • a) Bacterial e.g. Gono, Diphth., Pneumo, Staph, Strept…
  • b) Fungal
  • c) Viral e.g. Herpes Simplex and Zoster
  • d) Acanthamoeba (C.L.)

Pathology of Corneal Ulcers

Stage of Infiltration

  • Inflammatory reaction PNLs

Stage of Ulceration

  1. Progressive unclean Stage
  2. Regressive Clean Stage
  3. Healing stage

Clinical Picture

Symptoms

  • Pain Severe (FB or pricking sensation)
    • Irritation of nerve endings
  • Photophobia
  • Lacrimation
  • Diminution of vision

Signs

  • Lids: Oedema

  • Conj.: Ciliary injection

  • Cornea: Loss of luster, Grey infilt., Oedema & +ve FT

  • Iris: Const. pupil & Aqueous flare

  • Fluorescein

  • Instillation under the cornea is safe, comfortable and standard technique for tear film

Complications of Corneal Ulcers

A) Non-Perforated Corneal Ulcer Early Complications

  1. 2ry Iridocyclitis: (Toxins)
  2. 2ry Glaucoma: Open angle glaucoma

Late Complications (Healing abnormalities)

  1. Corneal opacity
  2. Keratectasia: (weak corneal scar & IOP)

B) Perforated Corneal Ulcers Cornea:

  • Anterior synechia (Small periph. Perforati
  • Corneal Fistula (Small central perforation)
    • Lost AC
    • IOP
    • River Green Sign
  • Leucoma Adherent (Scar)

Lens:

  • Malposition of the Lens
    • Sublaxation
    • Ant. Dislocation & Extrusion
  • Ant. Polar Cataract (Toxins)

Iris:

  • Iris Prolapse

Globe:

  • Intra-ocular Hge
  • Endo or Panophthalmitis
  • Atrophia bulbi (atrophy of the cil. processes)

iris prolapse

Management of Corneal Ulcers

Investigations + Treatment

A) Corneal Scrapping (Culture & Sensitivity)

  • for Bacteria & Trachoma & Acanthamoeba
  • Silver Stain for Fungi

B) Local TreatmentZ ABCD

  1. Atropine sulphate 1% or cycloplejico
  2. Dressings (Antibiotic dps & oint)
  3. Bandage or Dark Glasses
  4. Counter irritant

C) Systemic Treatment

  • Antibiotics
  • Analgesics
  • Vitamins A & C

Treatment of Complications

  1. 2ry Glaucoma

    • Usual Treatment
    • Antiglaucoma Treatment
    • Paracentesis
  2. Perforation

    • Small Cyanoacrylate Tissue Adhesive
    • Large Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP)

Treatment of Corneal Opacity

  1. Central Nebula

    • Glasses or CL
    • Eximer Laser
    • Lamellar KP
  2. LeucomaPenetrating keratoplasty PKP

Treatment of Resistant Corneal Ulcer CU

  • Scrapping for Culture & Sensitivity
  • Subconjunctival (S.C). injection of antibiotics (AB)
  • Therapeutic KP (Lamellar or Penetrating)