Microbial Keratitis is a serious eye condition that may require quick diagnosis and treatment.
Individuals with Microbial Keratitis may experience inflammation of the cornea due to infections.
A person may face Microbial Keratitis due to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
However, it is important to treat the condition promptly since it may lead to vision loss if left untreated.
This article will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Microbial Keratitis.
What is Microbial Keratitis
Microbial Keratitis refers to the inflammation of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.
The cornea is responsible for focusing the light on one’s retina and helping with one’s vision.
Hence, the inflammation of the cornea can interrupt vision and even threaten one’s sight.
This form of Keratitis is caused due to microbial organisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Since Microbial Keratitis happens due to microbes, it is often infectious and may require extra care to prevent it from spreading.
A study states that since Microbial Keratitis can cause blindness, it needs immediate treatment.
Microbial Keratitis Symptoms
Source: DawnPolandThe symptoms of Microbial Keratitis may differ based on the severity of one’s condition.
Individuals with bacterial Keratitis may experience symptoms like redness, eye pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, watery discharge, and excessive tearing.
The symptoms of viral Keratitis are also similar to bacterial Keratitis, with an additional feeling of something in one’s eyes.
Both fungal and parasitic Keratitis may produce thick discharge as a symptom.
These are the most serious forms of Keratitis, often leading to vision problems and blindness.
Causes of Microbial Keratitis
Microbial Keratitis is caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infection in an individual.
However, there are specific types of these microbes that are responsible for causing corneal infection.
Let us discuss these types of microbes that are responsible for Microbial Keratitis.
Bacterial Keratitis
People with bacterial Keratitis might experience it due to several kinds of infections due to bacteria.
According to a study, the most common causes of bacterial Keratitis are:
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
In some cases, the bacteria species of the Enterobacteriaceae family may also be responsible for bacterial Keratitis.
However, wearing contact lenses is also one of the most common risk factors for this Keratitis type.
Viral Keratitis
Individuals may experience viral Keratitis due to the infection by Adenovirus, Herpes Simplex Virus, and Varicella-zoster virus.
Keratitis due to Adenovirus may lead to inflammation and formation of pseudomembranes and may or may not cause corneal damage.
However, Herpes Simplex Keratitis may show in the form of epithelial disease or endotheliitis.
Keratitis due to the Varicella-zoster virus can lead to a condition known as Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus.
Endotheliitis is a condition that causes swelling of the endothelium, which refers to a thin layer of cells lining the blood vessels.
Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus is a viral infection caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. It affects one’s eyes and can cause painful blisters alongside vision problems.
Fungal Keratitis
A person might experience fungal Keratitis due to fungi like Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida species.
The Fusarium and Aspergillus fungi species are often found in one’s environment and are often linked with
outdoor injuries.
However, the Candida species are often found on human skin and mucous membranes.
This type of Keratitis is usually common in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Parasitic Keratitis
The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) states that Acanthamoeba causes parasitic Keratitis.
Acanthamoeba is a parasite that affects the cornea in rare cases and is often found in water and soil.
Keratitis due to this organism is also known as Acanthamoeba Keratitis (AK).
Microbial Keratitis Treatment
Source: Biserka_Stojanovic_from_Getty_ImagesThe treatment of Microbial Keratitis always depends on the microorganism causing the infection.
Research states that using antibiotic eye drops to treat Bacterial Keratitis can be beneficial in reducing the spread of infection.
Doctors may prescribe antifungal medications like eye drops or ointment to treat fungal Keratitis.
Antiviral medications are beneficial for treating viral Keratitis in a person.
However, doctors may also suggest artificial tear drops to soothe symptoms like irritation, burning, and redness.
Conclusion
Microbial Keratitis is a serious condition that may happen due to viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections.
The common symptoms of Microbial Keratitis include redness, sensitivity to light, pain, blurry vision, and discharge.
While bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa cause bacterial Keratitis, Acanthamoeba causes parasitic Keratitis.
Viruses like Adenovirus, Herpes Simplex, Varicella-zoster virus, and fungi of Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida species can also cause Keratitis.
Doctors may suggest antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungal medications to treat Microbial Keratitis.
However, it is always best to consult your doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of Microbial Keratitis?
The most common cause of Microbial Keratitis is a bacterial eye infection. In most cases, the infection happens due to the bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Is Microbial Keratitis an emergency?
Yes, Microbial Keratitis is an emergency. The infections due to microbe can spread quickly and threaten one’s vision if it remains untreated. Hence, it often requires immediate medical attention.
How long does Microbial Keratitis last?
The duration of the Microbial Keratitis often depends on its causes and severity. Bacterial Keratitis can last 24 to 48 hours if it receives immediate treatment. At the same time, the other types of Microbial Keratitis might last for weeks.
How do you prevent Microbial Keratitis?
A person can prevent Microbial Keratitis using several methods. Using contact lenses properly, maintaining hygienic surroundings, and undergoing regular eye checkups can help prevent it.
Are there home remedies for Microbial Keratitis?
No, there are no proven home remedies for Microbial Keratitis. However, honey and salt water can disinfect and help soothe the symptoms.
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