Corneal ulcer
A corneal ulcer is an open defect in the corneal surface, often caused by infection or injury. It can scar the cornea and threaten vision.
Corneal epithelium: The outermost cell layer of the cornea, forming a protective barrier over its surface. Ulcers begin when this protective layer is lost or damaged.
Slit-lamp examination: A clinical examination using a focused beam and microscope to inspect the eye's structures. It reveals the ulcer's size, depth, and surrounding inflammation.
Cornea: The transparent, curved front surface of the eye that helps focus incoming light. An ulcer is a wound in this tissue.
Bacterial keratitis: Corneal inflammation caused by bacterial infection, sometimes producing a rapidly progressive ulcer. It is a common infectious cause of corneal ulceration.
Endophthalmitis: A severe inflammation inside the eye, usually caused by infection. Rarely, organisms from a serious corneal infection spread into the eye.
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, caused by infection, injury, or other processes. A corneal ulcer is a destructive form of keratitis involving an epithelial defect.
Fluorescein stain: A fluorescent dye used to highlight defects in the corneal surface under blue light. The dye makes the ulcer's epithelial defect visible during examination.
Tear film: A layered coating of tears that lubricates and protects the eye's surface. Its antimicrobial and lubricating functions help defend the cornea.
Fungal keratitis: Corneal infection caused by fungi, often associated with plant or soil trauma. Its appearance can resemble bacterial disease, but treatment differs.
Blindness: Severe or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes. Central scarring or destructive infection can cause profound vision loss.