Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content + Download Section PDF Listen ++ For further information, see CMDT Part 7-08: Corneal Ulcer + Key Features Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Most commonly due to infection by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or amebas (see Keratitis, Infectious) Noninfectious causes include Neurotrophic keratitis (resulting from loss of corneal sensation) Exposure keratitis (due to inadequate eyelid closure) Severe dry eye Severe allergic eye disease Various inflammatory disorders that may be purely ocular or part of a systemic vasculitis + Clinical Findings Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Pain, photophobia, tearing, and reduced vision Conjunctiva is injected Discharge may be purulent or watery + Diagnosis Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ The corneal appearance varies according to the underlying cause (see Keratitis, Infectious) Some ulcers are most easily seen after instillation of fluorescein and examination with a blue light + Treatment Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Delayed or ineffective treatment of corneal ulceration may lead to devastating consequences with corneal scarring or intraocular infection Any patient with an acute painful red eye and corneal abnormality should be referred emergently to an ophthalmologist Contact lens wearers with acute eye pain, redness, and decreased vision should be referred immediately