Clinical Features and Factors Influencing the Course of Herpetic Keratitis, As Well as Optimization of its Treatment

Abstract

Herpetic keratitis is an infection of the cornea with the herpes simplex virus. It can also affect the iris. Characteristic symptoms and signs include foreign body sensation, lacrimation, photophobia, and conjunctival hyperemia. Recurrences are common and can lead to corneal hypoesthesia, ulceration, permanent scarring, clouding, thinning of the corneal stroma, and visual impairment. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion, slit-lamp examination, and sometimes virological testing. Treatment is with topical and systemic antiviral agents.