How to treat keratitis

  Treatment of keratitis varies according to the etiology, pathophysiological mechanism, and severity of the lesion.  Bacterial keratitis is usually treated with topical antibiotic eye drops or ointment, such as levofloxacin and tobramycin eye drops, with attention to local hygiene and regular dosing. Viral keratitis is usually treated with topical antiviral drops, such as ribavirin, ganciclovir ophthalmic gel, acyclovir ophthalmic solution, etc. For corneal stromal edema, low-concentration glucocorticoid drops are available. For fungal keratitis, topical amphotericin eye drops, fluconazole eye drops, or natamycin eye drops are usually ordered, as well as cautery with tincture of iodine and, if necessary, oral antifungal medications such as itraconazole. If the patient does not arrive at the hospital in time for consultation and treatment, the delayed condition and the recurrence of lesions that do not heal are particularly likely to cause the formation of corneal scarring, and corneal scarring that affects vision requires corneal transplantation at a later stage. If the inflammation is not effectively controlled, anterior chamber reaction, pupillary adhesions, corneal perforation or endophthalmitis may occur, and even eye removal surgery may be required.  Keratitis can also be caused by a local immune response and can be treated with low concentration glucocorticoid drops combined with corneal protective medication.  In summary, keratitis can be caused by viral, bacterial, fungal and other infections, or it can be an immune response, and treatment should vary depending on the cause.