COREAL ULCERS/EROSION ULCERATION OF THE CORNEA IS A LOCALIZED INFECTION, SIMILIAR TO AN abscess that can disturb the eye with painful discomfort, and reduce vision. The most common causes of corneal ulcers are bacterial infection, viruses, fungi or acanthamoeba (a microscopic parasite), which typically occurs in contact lens wearers who swim with contact lenses in. Abrasions, foreign bodies in the cornea, severe dry eyes, severe allergic eye disease, improper eyelid closure and inflammatory disorders are conditions that can also form ulcers or erosion of the cornea. Bacterial infection can occur after sleeping in contact lenses, inadequate lens sterilization, trauma or foreign body penetration in the cornea. Complications with diseases such as herpes simplex keratitis, chronic blepharitis, conjunctivitis, bullous keratopathy, and cicatricial pemphigold are other causative factors in creating ulcers. Risk factors for corneal erosion are dry eyes, severe allergies, history of inflammatory disorders, improper contact lens wear, immunosuppression, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and infection. Corneal ulcers can result from eyelid abnormalities or imcomplete eyelid closure due to trauma or conditions like Bell's Palsy. Another cause of ulceration is vitamin A deficiency or protein malnutrition that can disturb corneal nutrition. Symptoms associated with ulceration are eye pain, impaired vision, eye redness, sensitivity to light, and increased tearing. Prevention of ulcers can best be treated by prompt, early attention to signs of infection and disease, cleanliness in handling contact lenses and avoidance of extended overnight wear and swimming with contact lenses. Corneal ulcers are treated with antibiotics and anti-fungal agents, both topical and oral, depending on the condition of the cornea. In severe cases where scarring has formed, a corneal transplant may be necessary. Our Practice l Services l Publications l Map & Directions l Contact Us l Privacy Policy Cataracts l Cornea and External Diseases l Corneal Transplants l Refractive Errors Refractive Surgery l Optics All contents © copyright 2002-2004 Corneal Consultants of Colorado, P.C. All rights reserved. Development by Mindshare HDV. Acanthamoeba keratitis, is an ocular infection, capable of causing erosion that occurs almost exclusively in contact lens wearers. The primary risk factors for this condition are: swimming in pools, lakes or sea water while wearing contact lenses, storing contact lenses in home made solutions, and poor contact lens hygiene.