What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Bacterial Infection of Cornea
• Corneal Infection by Bacteria

What is Bacterial Keratitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Bacterial Keratitis is a severe and often painful infection of the cornea (the transparent layer forming the front of the eye), caused by bacteria entering the eye, usually through one’s contact lens. It can cause blurry vision and light sensitivity
• If left undiagnosed or untreated, Bacterial Keratitis may result in visual impairment or irreversible blindness. However, the infection responds well to early treatment

Who gets Bacterial Keratitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Individuals of any age may be affected by Bacterial Keratitis, although those who wear contact lenses are at a higher risk for the same
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all races and ethnicity are prone to developing the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Bacterial Keratitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Bacterial Keratitis may include:

• Improper use, storage, and poor disinfection of contact lenses; wearing contact lens overnight (while sleeping). It is reported that between 19-42% of infections are in contact lens users
• Injury to the cornea (eye)
• Eye diseases including conditions affecting the eyelids such as:
  • Dry eyes
  • Bullous keratopathy
• Use of contaminated eye applications (such as eyedrops)
• Eye surgery presenting loose sutures
• Individuals with weak immune systems. It is important to note that Bacterial Keratitis can develop in those with healthy immune systems too

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Bacterial Keratitis? (Etiology)

Bacteria may gain entry to the body through the eyes and causes corneal inflammation (or keratitis) leading to Bacterial Keratitis.

• The most common species responsible for infection are Pseudomonas sp. and Staphylococcus aureus
• The risk for infection may increase through wearing infected lenses, improper handling/storing of contact lenses, wearing lens while sleeping, etc.
• Other causative factors include trauma to the eye, dry eyes, and use of contaminated eye solutions/medications

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial Keratitis?

The signs and symptoms of Bacterial Keratitis may include:

• Eye pain, redness, and excessive tearing
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Sensation of something (foreign body) in the eye
• Discharge from the eye

The rate of progression of the condition is dependent upon the type of causative bacteria.

How is Bacterial Keratitis Diagnosed?

Bacterial Keratitis may be diagnosed by the following observations and tests:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation (including history of contact lens wear)
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• General eye exam
• Culture of corneal scrapings to determine presence of bacteria
• Slit-lamp examination

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Bacterial Keratitis?

The complications of Bacterial Keratitis may include:

• Corneal scarring and perforation of the cornea
• Astigmatism
• Endophthalmitis or inflammation of the interior cavity of the eye
• Progression into more severe eye disease resulting in severe scarring of the eye, when left untreated or if treatment fails
• Permanent blindness
• Complications from treatment of the infection

How is Bacterial Keratitis Treated?

The treatment for Bacterial Keratitis may include:

• Medical therapy: Administration of topical and oral antibiotics (usually broad spectrum)
• Corneal transplant may be necessary if there is corneal perforation. However, surgery is usually postponed until the eye is free of infection
• Contact lens users may be asked to discontinue using contact lens for a certain period
• Treating associated conditions, if any present

Post treatment, holding regular medical and surgical follow-up is important.

How can Bacterial Keratitis be Prevented?

The following are some guidelines for possible prevention of Bacterial Keratitis:

• Clean and replace lenses according to the instructions of the eye care provider
• Remove lenses before any activity involving contact with water
• Store reusable lenses in the proper storage container; replace storage cases in a timely manner
• Wash hands with soap and water before touching one’s eyes
• Have regular eye examinations
• Seek treatment for underlying medical conditions that may reduce immunity
• In general, follow good hygiene practices

Undertaking early and adequate treatment of any health issues is important.

What is the Prognosis of Bacterial Keratitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Bacterial Keratitis is mostly good, since the condition is manageable with early diagnosis and prompt treatment - but this is extremely important
• However, a delayed diagnosis and/or treatment may adversely affect outcomes. In some cases, it may result in irreversible damage to the eye or even complete blindness

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Bacterial Keratitis:

Please visit our Eye & Vision Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vision-center/