Viral keratitis = corneal infection caused by a virus (most often herpes simplex virus type 1). It’s a common cause of corneal inflammation and can lead to recurrent episodes.
Causes
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1): Most common
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): Shingles can affect the eye
- Other viruses like adenovirus can cause keratitis too
Symptoms
- Watery eyes
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Blurred vision
- Feeling of something in the eye
- Sometimes tiny corneal ulcers or dendritic lesions (branching pattern)
Diagnosis
- Slit-lamp exam: Look for typical dendritic ulcers with fluorescein stain
- Viral PCR testing (corneal scraping) if needed
Treatment
- Antivirals: Acyclovir ointment, ganciclovir gel, or oral antivirals for HSV
- Steroids: May be used cautiously to reduce inflammation, but need monitoring
- Supportive care: Lubricating eye drops for comfort
Complications
- Recurrent episodes (HSV can hide in nerves and reactivate)
- Corneal scarring → vision loss
- Stromal keratitis (deeper corneal inflammation)
Prevention
- Good hand hygiene
- Avoid touching or rubbing eyes
- Antiviral prophylaxis may be used for recurrent cases