The outer surfaces of the eyeball are exposed to environmental influences. They quickly become inflamed, turn red, and small hemorrhages form.

If a patient has conjunctivitis, it can easily spread to the cornea, causing inflammation.

This form is called keratoconjunctivitis. It is dangerous for patients and can lead to complications. Therefore, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor and undergo comprehensive treatment.

There are various forms of the disease, which are formed by the following factors:

There are diseases in which conjunctivitis often forms, these include:

• autoimmune diseases (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis);
• flu;
• rubella;
• chronic dry eyes;
• genetic diseases that cause tissue inflammation.

For each cause there is a specific treatment. Therefore, the doctor is obliged to diagnose the disease.

Risk group

The risk groups for the development of the disease include the following categories of patients:

• those suffering from immunodeficiency;
• the occurrence of frequent acute respiratory viral infections and infectious diseases, which are most typical for children of kindergarten and school age;
• visiting polluted water bodies and crowded places;
• workers of medical institutions.

Such patients should be periodically examined by an ophthalmologist. When the first signs of the disease appear, treatment is started immediately with the permission of the doctor.

Classification

Depending on the prevalence of the infection, the disease can take several forms:

• acute, with the most pronounced clinical symptoms: redness, inflammation, swelling, pain, itching;
• subacute, characterized by minor manifestations of clinical symptoms that pass quickly;
• chronic, in which the disease is constantly formed under the influence of negative environmental factors.

Depending on the damaging factor, the following types of keratoconjunctivitis are distinguished:

• herpetic – the virus constantly circulates in the blood and nervous tissue, and is activated under the influence of negative environmental factors;
• hydrogen sulfide – formed by people who constantly work with this substance (chemists, factory workers);
• tuberculous (Tyjeson's syndrome)– formed when mycobacteria spread from the lungs to various tissues;
• allergic – formed under the influence of strong allergens, which most often include chemicals;
• epidemic - a highly contagious disease in which the pathogen spreads into the conjunctival sac and cornea;
• adenoviral- the entry gates for the virus are the nasopharynx and pharynx; if treatment is untreated, keratoconjunctivitis develops;
• dry – formed when the production of tear fluid is reduced, as a result of which the cornea dries out, microtraumas and cracks form on it, causing erosions and ulcers;
• atopic - the formation of white plaque on the cornea, which most often forms in the cold season;
• spring is a chronic form of keratoconjunctivitis, which forms in the spring, when the body lacks vitamins and nutrients;
• chlamydial – spread of the pathogen from other affected areas of the body.

Each form of keratoconjunctivitis is treated differently. Therefore, the doctor is initially obliged to identify the cause of the disease.

Symptoms

The symptoms of the patient’s condition depend on the cause of the disease:

• itching, pain, burning on the outer surface of the eyes;
• increased production of tear fluid;
• discharge of pus from the inner corners of the eyes with the development of a bacterial form;
• spasm of the eyelids, due to which it is impossible to open the eyes;
• increased sensitivity to bright light;
• swelling, inflammation of the superficial structures of the eyes;
• small areas of hemorrhage on the cornea;
• formation of uncharacteristic formations on the cornea: plaque, bubbles, threads;
• increase in body temperature to subfebrile (37-37.5 degrees) or high values ​​(38 degrees or more), which depends on the prevalence of the pathological process and the type of pathogen.

Based on clinical symptoms, the doctor can guess the cause of the disease. An accurate diagnosis can only be made based on research data.

Diagnostics

A reliable diagnosis is made after 1-2 research methods:

• Collection of patient complaints which worries him the most.
• General inspection. The doctor identifies the degree of redness of the cornea, its damage, the presence of hemorrhages, purulent exudate from the corners of the eyes.
• Bacteriological culture. A swab of the inner corner of the eye is taken from the patient. He is sent to the laboratory, where he is examined using culture on a nutrient medium. The growth of pathogenic microflora is detected on days 5-7. The laboratory technician identifies the bacteria and the antibiotic to which they are sensitive. If the disease is caused by a virus, fungus or other pathogen, the growth of pathogenic microflora will not be detected.
• Virological method. For this purpose, PCR is used, which determines the genotype of the pathogen. This is how adenovirus and herpes can be detected.
• Microscopy. Using the technique, fungal spores and bacteria are determined.
• Fundus examination. This technique is necessary to avoid complications. The patient is first instilled with atropine or similar agents that dilate the pupil. Using a slit lamp, the doctor examines the internal structures of the eyeball.

Based on the data obtained, the doctor discovers the pathogen that caused the disease. Only after this is treatment prescribed.

Treatment

The method of therapy depends on the type of pathogen that caused the disease. Complex treatment is used to prevent the development of complications:

• broad-spectrum antibacterial agents, used in the form of syrups, tablets, drops, ointments (Suprax, Vigamox, Tobrex, Erythromycin ointment, Levomekol)
• antivirals applied systemically or locally (Acyclovir);
• immunostimulants, helping to increase the response of the body's defense system (Interferon);
• moisturizing drops, preventing the appearance of damage and microcracks on the surface of the cornea due to dry eyes;
• ointments that increase metabolism, which leads to increased tissue regeneration (Solcoseryl);
• antipyretics(Ibuklin, Nurofen).

The dosage of each drug should be determined only by a doctor. If there is no effect, he will replace the product with an analogue.

Complications

If the patient does not undergo treatment, the risk of the following complications increases:

• formation of ulcers on the surface of the cornea;
• clouding of the cornea, which leads to decreased vision function up to complete blindness;
• penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the internal structure of the eyeballs;
• hemorrhages inside the eyeballs;
• the spread of viruses and bacteria throughout the body, which causes sepsis (blood poisoning), sore throat, encephalitis (inflammation of the meninges when bacteria cross the blood-brain barrier).

Prevention

To avoid damage to the cornea due to the development of conjunctivitis, it is recommended to follow these rules:

• daily hygiene of hands, face, eyes, wearing contact lenses according to the rules;
• avoiding visiting crowded places during the epidemic;
• no swimming in public or polluted waters;
• annual preventive examination of the visual organs by an ophthalmologist, especially if the patient has a chronic eye disease;
• use of medications in the dosage prescribed by the doctor.

Keratoconjunctivitis is a dangerous disease that can lead to complications. The cornea is damaged, so the person experiences acute pain, and hemorrhage often forms. It is important to consult a doctor in the early stages so that the prognosis is positive.

Keratoconjunctivitis - affecting the cornea and conjunctiva of the eye. This is one of the most common ophthalmological diseases. It is contagious, and without timely treatment can lead to serious complications.

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Causes

There are a number of reasons that can trigger the development of the inflammatory process. Main pathogens:

A deficiency or excess of vitamins in the body is of great importance. Keratoconjunctivitis often occurs due to prolonged and continuous wearing of contact lenses or due to removal with dirty hands.

REFERENCE. The infection can enter the organs of vision when swimming in a polluted body of water or using low-quality cosmetics.

Infection can also occur through the blood. This happens with measles, acute respiratory diseases and chicken pox.

Varieties

There are many types of keratoconjunctivitis. Each has distinctive symptoms and causes.

Allergic

Allergic keratoconjunctivitis is called an eye allergy. It consists of an inflammatory reaction to dandruff, mold, pollen and other allergens.

Allergens release histamine, which leads to redness of the blood vessels of the conjunctiva. The disease also occurs during hot, dry or cold and rainy weather. The following symptoms are observed:

• burning;
• lacrimation;
• redness of the eyes.

In most cases, the allergic form of the disease is seasonal. Some medications may be allergens.

Herpetic

The cause of the development of herpetic keratoconjunctivitis is infection with the herpes virus. Most often the disease occurs in children. Deviation Features:

• unilateral inflammatory process;
• formation of blisters on the skin of the eyelids;
• long and sluggish course.

The herpetic variety has several forms: follicular, vesicular-ulcerative and catarrhal.

Adenoviral

Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis is a common type of disease that is characterized by inflammation of the anterior segment of the eye. The reason is a virus infection. In total, there are about 50 subtypes of adenoviruses that can infect humans.

IMPORTANT. The spread of viruses is facilitated by the fact that they are able to survive on dry surfaces.

Symptoms of adenoviral inflammatory lesion:

• swelling of the eyelids;
• redness;
• photophobia of one eye;
• proliferation of follicles.

Infection can occur through the use of dirty towels or equipment.

Epidemic

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis most often occurs in adults. The incubation period of pathogens is 6-10 days. You can become infected in a public place, at work and even at home.

The onset of the pathological process is acute and is accompanied by severe swelling of the eyelids and conjunctival hyperemia.

Transmission of infection can occur through airborne droplets, nutritional and contact routes. Outbreaks of the disease do not depend on the time of year.

Dry

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is often called dry eye syndrome. The reason for the development of the deviation is decreased production of tears or increased evaporation. This pathology occurs in 5-6% of the population, mainly in older people. Women in the menopausal period are at risk.

Typical symptoms:

• feeling of sand in the eyes;
• burning;
• dryness;
• discomfort;
• redness;
• feeling of pressure behind the eye.

Expert opinion

Nosova Yulia Vladimirovna

Ophthalmologist of the highest category. Candidate of Medical Sciences.

Dry eye syndrome occurs due to damage to one of the layers of the tear film. As a result, it becomes unstable and a number of unpleasant symptoms arise.

Chlamydial

The causative agent of chlamydial keratoconjunctivitis is chlamydia. The following factors contribute to infection:

• autoimmune diseases;
• chronic infections;
• decreased functioning of the immune system;
• acute respiratory diseases.

Initially, only one eye is affected, and the second only after 2-5 days. This form of the disease is characterized by profuse mucopurulent discharge and sticking of the eyelids.

Additional symptoms include swelling of the mucous membrane of the eyes, tenderness of the lymph nodes and decreased hearing.

The chlamydial form of the disease is divided into trachoma and paratrachoma. If left untreated, this pathological process can lead to blindness.

IMPORTANT. Chlamydia, which causes trachoma, multiplies only on the mucous membrane of the eye.

Infection occurs through contact when using common objects. Flies can act as carriers.

Paratrachoma is more common than trachoma. This disease is transmitted sexually. Infection occurs as a result of introducing chlamydia into the eyes with dirty hands. The root cause of the pathological condition is neglect of hygiene rules.

Tuberculosis-allergic

Tuberculous-allergic keratoconjunctivitis is diagnosed in children and young patients who suffer from tuberculosis of the lungs or lymph nodes in the presence of an additional allergic lesion.

REFERENCE. The pathological process begins suddenly.

The patient suddenly develops severe photophobia. As the disease progresses, lacrimation and blepharospasm become more intense. Some patients develop eczematous lesions behind the ears and at the corners of the lips. The duration of the disease is 2-4 weeks.

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What is Keratoconjunctivitis:

Signs of the disease

The exact symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis depend on the provoking factor and the severity of the pathological process. Typical signs of eye inflammation:

• purulent discharge;
• burning;
• eye hazard;
• lacrimation;
• eyelid gluing;
• fear of sunlight.

The chronic type of keratoconjunctivitis is characterized by a long course. The patient suffers from sleep problems and general poor health.

Diagnostics

It begins with a history and general examination. Biomicroscopy is performed using a special device - a slit lamp. Specific examinations for tuberculosis are also carried out. These are the Pirquet, Mantoux and Diaskin tests. If necessary, the patient undergoes a consultation with a phthisiatrician.

Therapy

Therapy must be comprehensive. Depending on the type of keratoconjunctivitis, tablets, drops and ointments are prescribed. In particularly advanced cases, surgical intervention is performed.

Drugs

For treatment, not only local medications are prescribed, but also systemic drugs. Along with the use of medications, you need to be especially careful about eye hygiene.

You can use medications only as prescribed by a doctor. It determines the dosage and duration of the therapeutic course.

Surgery

Keratoplasty is performed when the cornea is completely damaged. The operation consists of restoring clouded tissue when it is impossible to restore its transparency.

There are 3 methods of transplantation: superficial and deep. In the first case, the 2 upper layers are replaced, and in the second, the inner layer is replaced. Complete corneal replacement is called penetrating keratoplasty.

REFERENCE. During surgery, the doctor can remove cataracts or restore the normal structure of the eye after injury.

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. After this, daily inclusion of the eye is required. During the recovery period, the patient should use antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs in drops.

Folk remedies

Folk remedies for keratoconjunctivitis can be used as additional ones and only after consultation with a specialist. Effective folk recipes.

Ophthalmologists call keratoconjunctivitis one of the most common eye diseases. It turns out that this disease is a leader among infectious eye diseases. Thus, the so-called rickettsial keratoconjunctivitis is characteristic of animals; it causes considerable damage to the agriculture of many countries.

The same ophthalmologists emphasize that the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis in people always depends on the form of the disease and may differ significantly in each specific case from generally accepted norms.

The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane of the eye that lines the front of the eyeball and the surface of the eyelids facing it. She is the first to be attacked by viruses and bacteria from the outside and therefore is always the first to suffer. If an inflammatory process appears on the conjunctiva, then there is a very high probability that the infection will spread further to the cornea, which is located behind the conjunctival layer.

The inflammatory process involving the conjunctiva and cornea is called keratoconjunctivitis.

In fact, there are several causes of inflammation of the external mucous membranes of the eye, and each of them will cause its own symptoms.

General signs of the inflammatory process

In many ways, the appearance of symptoms will depend on the type of disease, but there are a number of common symptoms of this disease. Among them will be the following.

• Redness of the eye.
• Discharge of pus.
• Sticking of eyelids.
• Membrane formation.
• Cutting pain in the eye.
• Foreign body sensation.
• The presence of non-stop lacrimation.
• Swelling of the eyelids.
• Photophobia.

Classifications of keratoconjunctivitis

Like many other diseases, keratoconjunctivitis is divided into acute and chronic forms. Acute keratoconjunctivitis will have pronounced symptoms. In this case, a significant increase in body temperature is possible.

With prolonged absence of treatment, the acute form becomes chronic, the infection spreads to the deeper structures of the eye and can lead to infection of other body systems. In especially severe cases, with chronic keratoconjunctivitis, there is a decrease in visual acuity and blindness is possible.

One of the most popular will be a classification based on the factors causing the pathology.

Dry eye syndrome

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye syndrome is considered a disease of the modern world. It is familiar to those who spend many hours in front of a computer monitor or TV screen; people who constantly wear lenses and are prone to allergies are also susceptible to this disease. Those who take contraceptives and corticosteroids will also be at risk. Scientists cannot yet say for sure what is the main factor in the occurrence of the disease.

Causes

Among the causes of keratoconjunctivitis sicca are:

• Insufficient production of tears by the lacrimal glands.
• Too rapid evaporation of tear fluid from the surface of the cornea with sufficient production.
• The presence of a disease that provokes disruption of tear production (systemic lupus, etc.).

Signs

Which causes keratoconjunctivitis sicca will depend on the extent of the disease. The fact is that this type of disease has several stages:

At the 1st stage, along with general symptoms, redness of the eyes will appear, and an unusual secretion will appear in the form of threads (membranes) in the conjunctival sac.

On the 2nd, detachment of the epithelium on the cornea will occur. Severe swelling will appear.

At the 3rd stage, erosions form on the cornea, threads (up to 5 mm) will appear that will hang from the cornea. When you open your eyes, they come off and this causes pain.

On the 4th, keratinization of the cornea will occur, which will also cause clouding. During this period, vision deteriorates significantly.

Treatment

Dry keratoconjunctivitis is treated with special drops - tear substitutes. They are called artificial tears. In difficult cases, special ointments containing artificial tears (Taufon) or thicker eye lubricants (Actovegin) may be prescribed. Patients are recommended to take vitamin complexes with vitamin A and zinc.

Allergic form of keratoconjunctivitis

The allergic form can be of the following types.

• Spring form of the disease. In this case, symptoms occur only when the plants are flowering.
• An all-season form, it often occurs due to house dust or other constant allergen irritants.
• Tuberculosis-allergic or phlyctenulosis. Occurs as a reaction to tuberculosis. It is characterized by the formation of white nodules on the mucous membranes and cornea, which then turn into ulcers.
• Dosage form - occurs as a result of the use of certain eye drops.

Signs

Allergic keratoconjunctivitis is characterized by severe pain and profuse lacrimation, extensive swelling of the eyelids and face, and redness of the eyes.

Causes and timing of occurrence

The occurrence of this form will always be caused by exposure to an allergen. But in each specific case, the allergen will be different, and it is often very difficult to determine it. In case of phlyctenulosis form, examination of the contents of the nodules will help to establish a diagnosis, and in case of drug allergies, the allergen will be the eye drops used.

It will be difficult to establish the cause of the disease in a seasonal and, especially, all-season form. This will require a number of special tests.

Signs and their treatment

The main sign will be the occurrence of the main symptoms: redness of the eyes, lacrimation, photophobia, swelling of the eyelids after using the medicine or as a result of exposure to another allergen factor.

Treatment in this case consists of eliminating the irritant. Only by eliminating the cause of the disease can you get rid of it. To reduce allergic reactions, drops are prescribed: Opatanol, Ketotifen, Allergodil. To eliminate inflammation and swelling: Tobradex. Corticosteroids are rarely prescribed.

Infectious keratoconjunctivitis is the most dangerous for others. After all, viral diseases cause epidemics, and this is also present in the case of keratoconjunctivitis.

Signs

The most common infectious forms are viral keratoconjunctivitis. Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is characterized by:

• redness of the eyes;
• formation of pus;
• drying of crusts, which makes it difficult to open the eyes;
• severe pain and photophobia (photophobia).

There are several types of it.

Herpetic species

It occurs due to the herpes virus entering the eye. If herpetic keratoconjunctivitis occurs, then antiviral drugs must be used: Ophthalmoferon, Interferon. Acyclovir or Zovirax ointment is prescribed. Prescribe Diclofecac or Indomethicin intramuscularly, as well as antibiotics (for prevention).

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis

It is the most dangerous for others, since a person is contagious even after 7 days. Caused by adenoviruses, which are transmitted by airborne droplets.

When diagnosed with epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, it is better to isolate the sick person, this is especially important if there are children in the house. This disease in an adult has an incubation period of 7 days.

You should not share personal hygiene items with the patient; you need to ventilate the room daily and wash your hands frequently. Use disposable sponges to wash the eyes, making sure that the tip of the pipette does not touch the affected eye.

In children, epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is more complex and occurs much more often than in adults. You can often see entire groups in a kindergarten with children sick with epidemic or adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis.

Treatment for this type of disease will require the following:

• Instillation of Poludan eye drops, if they are not available - Reoferon or Pyrogenal.
• To reduce swelling, use Opatanol, Ketotifen, Allergodil.
• In some cases, doctors also prescribe Zovirax or Acyclovir.
• Vitamin complexes with vitamin A are indicated.

Adenoviral pathology

It is also caused by adenoviruses, but by those that are already in the body. Pharyngitis usually occurs here, and only then keratoconjunctivitis occurs.

Among the features of this disease there will also be the possibility of transmission by airborne droplets. Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis poses a threat to those around the patient for 5-7 days.

If children become ill, an urgent consultation with a doctor will be required, as this pathology can have several dangerous consequences for the baby:

• Angina.
• Bronchitis.
• Pneumonia.
• Otitis.
• Significant visual impairment.

Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis will require the same treatment as epidemic . However, therapeutic measures for the eyes here will be combined with other procedures for the treatment of pharyngitis.

Only a doctor can prescribe the full complex.

Chlamydial form

It occurs as a result of stagnation of tears in the eye and the formation of fungal colonies. In this case, the disease is caused precisely by them. Therefore, antifungal drugs are used for treatment, as well as vitamin complexes and drugs that strengthen the immune system.

Infectious keratoconjunctivitis

This pathology is caused by a number of bacteria that settle on the conjunctiva and then penetrate the cornea. Treatment of such an eye infection will require identifying the causative agent of inflammation and only then treatment will be applied.

Possible complications

Keratoconjunctivitis can cause complications such as corneal clouding. This pathology is dangerous because it leads to a significant decrease in the quality of vision, and also provokes the formation of a cataract (or several). To eliminate opacities resort to surgery.

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Keratoconjunctivitis: what it is, symptoms and treatment methods

One of the most dangerous eye diseases is keratoconjunctivitis, the symptoms and treatment of which should be well known to people who are prone to it or have encountered it before. It is extremely common due to the sensitivity of the conjunctiva part of the eye to external factors and can be highly contagious.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is characterized by impaired tear production. In addition, the precorneal film (a layer of liquid over the cornea of ​​the eye that ensures its wetting and safety) ceases to perform its functions. Sometimes it dries out completely.

The course of the disease can take both acute and chronic forms.

There are several types of keratoconjunctivitis, depending on the reasons that provoke its occurrence.

Conjunctivitis has fairly pronounced symptoms, which make it possible to diagnose it quite accurately and quickly.

Symptoms and causes of development

Keratoconjunctivitis is a dangerous disease that should be treated immediately!

When keratoconjunctivitis is diagnosed, symptoms may vary slightly depending on what type of disease affects the person. However, there are a number of signs that are common to almost all types of this disease:

• painful sensations in the eye, itching and burning;
• filling and overflow of blood of the cornea, conjunctiva;
• excessive tearing;
• purulent discharge;
• swelling of the conjunctiva;
• the formation on its surface of signs of certain types of diseases: threads, nodules;
• problems with light perception, attacks of photophobia;
• hemorrhages in the conjunctiva.

Keratitis and conjunctivitis always develop in a certain order:

1. The infection enters the eye.
2. The conjunctiva is affected, in which inflammation occurs.
3. During the period from 5 to 15 days, depending on the form of the disease, the cornea begins to suffer.
4. Symptoms gradually intensify.
5. External signs appear (threads, nodules, etc.).

The causes of the development of diseases such as keratitis and conjunctivitis can be not only those listed in the table. In addition to the factors affecting the eye itself, sometimes the causative agent is a pathology that affects the entire body, in which case keratoconjunctivitis, sicca and other types, becomes only a concomitant disease.

Of course, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, like other types of diseases, will not necessarily appear in people suffering from these pathologies, but the likelihood of its occurrence is extremely high. This is especially true for postmenopausal women.

Diagnosis and treatment

When keratoconjunctivitis is suspected, symptoms and the most appropriate treatment for each individual case should be reviewed by a specialist as quickly as possible. The problem is that many types of conjunctivitis can completely deprive a person of vision or significantly reduce its level, and it is possible to effectively combat them only in the initial stages of the development of the pathology.

Diagnosis when treating suspected keratoconjunctivitis is divided into two main areas:

If necessary, the patient may also be additionally referred for examination by other specialists:

• endocrinologist;
• therapist;
• phthisiatrician.

If keratoconjunctivitis is accurately diagnosed, treatment will depend on which form of the disease the patient suffers from.

If this disease has developed as a side effect of a pathology affecting the entire body, then the cause will be treated first. This, simultaneously with the removal of the most striking symptoms, will immediately help the patient and protect him from the new development of conjunctivitis. In such cases, antiviral drugs and antibiotics are useful.

A universal method of treatment for a common viral disease is the use of Poludan eye drops, as well as Reoferon and Pyrogenal. Oils and vitamin preparations are also often used. The optimal means of combating symptoms, however, does not eliminate the cause itself, are corticosteroid drugs.

When dry keratoconjunctivitis occurs, drops are used to act as artificial tear substitutes. Microsurgical agents aimed at preserving visual function can also be used.

As a preventative measure, the patient’s relatives should:

1. Reduce the frequency of contact with him.
2. Change things they could use together.
3. Do not take his personal belongings.
4. Wash your hands often.

This will protect them from further spread of the disease. However, if one of them also shows signs of conjunctivitis, this is a reason to immediately consult a doctor.

May 11, 2017 Anastasia Graudina

Keratoconjunctivitis is an inflammatory process in the eye, affecting both the conjunctiva and the cornea. This is one of the most common ophthalmic diseases, since the conjunctiva is sensitive to most exogenous and endogenous irritants. It is noteworthy that some types of keratoconjunctivitis can be contagious.

Keratoconjunctivitis sometimes develops with long-term use of corticosteroids, excess vitamins, or exposure to a foreign body on the conjunctiva or cornea. One of the most common reasons is improper use of contact lenses and insufficient cleaning.

Often, keratoconjunctivitis indicates another disease. Most often it is influenza, rubella, lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis or. Provoking factors for inflammation can be helminthiasis, food allergies, poor hygiene and lice.

Types of keratoconjunctivitis:

1. Herpetic. Inflammation occurs as a result of the activity of the herpes virus. Has symptoms of either acute diffuse conjunctivitis.
2. Hydrogen sulfide. Appears with prolonged exposure to hydrogen sulfide on the eyes. As a rule, the form of inflammation is acute or there are severe symptoms of conjunctivitis in combination with superficial keratitis.
3. Tuberculosis-allergic (scrofulous, phlyctenulous). It is a specific reaction to tuberculosis bacteria. On examination, conflicts are found in the eye.
4. Epidemic. Inflammation develops when pathogens enter the conjunctival sac and cornea. This is perhaps the most dangerous type of keratoconjunctivitis because it is contagious.
5. Adenoviral. The disease is caused by the activity of adenovirus in the body. This species is also contagious.
6. Dry. Characterized by the appearance of threads from degenerated epithelial cells. The threads can reach 5 mm and hang freely from the cornea. The progression of dry keratitis occurs against the background of hypofunction of the lacrimal glands and drying of the cornea.
7. Thygeson's keratoconjunctivitis. Caused by an allergic reaction or viral activity. It manifests itself as a point infection, which at the initial stage of inflammation is noticeable only under special lighting.
8. Atopic. Chronic inflammation, which is characterized by exacerbations in the cold season. During the examination, the doctor identifies whitish plaques on the surface of the eyeball.
9. . Inflammation develops when there is a large amount of chlamydia in the body, and is often a symptom of genitourinary disease. Chlamydia can enter the cornea during oral sex.
10. Spring. A chronic condition that worsens in the spring, less often in the fall. During diagnosis, whitish plaques are found on the mucous membrane.

Symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis

Acute infectious keratoconjunctivitis is characterized by first damage to one eye and gradual movement of inflammation to the other. Symptoms may differ for each patient depending on the type of lesion. The condition can be acute or chronic.

Common symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis:

• burning;
• redness of the cornea and conjunctivitis;
• loose structure of the conjunctiva;
• profuse lacrimation;
• photophobia;
• sensation of a foreign body in the eye;
• mucopurulent discharge;
• swelling;
• hemorrhages in the conjunctiva.

Sometimes, during inflammation, various pathological elements (follicles, papillae) are formed. At first, the inflammation is localized only in the conjunctiva, and after 5-15 days it spreads to the cornea.

When chlamydia becomes the cause of inflammation, peripheral subepithelial infiltrates are added to the listed symptoms. With epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, the doctor sees a coin-shaped clouding of the cornea. The spring and atopic forms provoke the appearance of whitish plaques along the limbus.

Allergic keratoconjunctivitis causes severe burning and lacrimation. With dry inflammation, there is almost always dry eye syndrome and filamentous keratitis.

Diagnosis of inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea

If any of the symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis occur, you should immediately consult a doctor, as some forms of the disease can be contagious. An ophthalmologist must conduct an examination, analyze complaints and anamnesis, as well as existing symptoms. According to indications, the patient may be referred for additional consultation with an endocrinologist, phthisiatrician or therapist.

Methods for diagnosing keratoconjunctivitis:

• visometry (determining visual acuity);
• biomicroscopy (study of eye structures);
• fluorescein test;
• perimetry (determination of visual fields);
• chest x-ray;
• general blood and urine analysis;
• RW blood test.

It is very important to exclude during the examination, and, and also. Blepharoconjunctivitis is a type of conjunctivitis that is associated with inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis).

Viral conjunctivitis is considered the most common ophthalmological disease; it affects the conjunctiva of the eye. Keratitis affects only the cornea, usually the condition is viral or bacterial in nature. Keratitis often occurs after an eye injury. Adenoviral keratitis is an acute infection of the mucous membrane of the eyeball. The disease is contagious and therefore requires immediate treatment.

Features of treatment of keratoconjunctivitis

Treatment for keratoconjunctivitis will depend on the cause of the inflammation. Any drugs can be used only after confirmation of the diagnosis and identification of the pathogen. To relieve symptoms, topical drops and ointments can be used. They give a short-term effect, but eliminate redness, burning and itching. Some of them are capable of destroying pathogens in the cornea and conjunctiva.

If inflammation progresses due to exposure to bacteria, it is necessary to include antibacterial drugs in therapy. Antiviral agents will help against viruses, and antifungals against fungi. It must be remembered that uncontrolled use of medications can lead to aggravation of the symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis.

If the cause of the progression of inflammation is a foreign body, surgical intervention is resorted to. In rare cases, conservative therapy for keratoconjunctivitis is completely ineffective. The ophthalmologist may suggest a corneal transplant to the patient.

Main medications for keratoconjunctivitis

Before using any drug, you should consult your doctor. It should be remembered that every medicine has contraindications.

Oftalmoferon is an anti-inflammatory, antiviral and immunomodulatory agent. For acute keratoconjunctivitis, 1-2 drops are prescribed 6-8 times a day into the affected eye. As you recover, the dose is reduced by 2-3 instillations per day. Treatment can be continued until complete recovery.

Tobramycin or Tobrex is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It belongs to the group of aminoglycosides. For inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, 6-8 instillations per day, 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac, are permissible. When symptoms subside, the dose is reduced to 4-5 instillations.

Ciprofloxacin is an antimicrobial drug from the fluoroquinolone series. Mild and moderate inflammations are treated by instilling 1-2 drops every 4 hours, and severe inflammations by instilling 2 drops every 2 hours. As you recover, the intensity and dosage are reduced.

If a bacterial ulcer occurs, Ciprofloxacin is recommended drop by drop every 15 minutes for 6 hours, and then drop by drop every half hour while awake. On the second day of treatment, a drop is instilled every hour of the day, on days 3-14, a drop is instilled every 4 hours (in the afternoon).

Preservation of the precorneal film helps protect the cornea from metaplasia. Trisol, Lakrisin, sodium bicarbonate solution (2%) are suitable for these purposes. You should also reduce the outflow of tears from the conjunctival sac by coagulation or blockade with silicone plugs.

To prevent secondary infection, a solution of chloramphenicol (0.25%) or sodium sulfacyl (30%) is recommended. Preservation of visual function is only possible if treatment is started at the first or second stage of inflammation, preferably before the development of filamentous keratitis.

Treatment methods for different types of keratoconjunctivitis

Allergic

Allergic keratoconjunctivitis should be treated quickly as complications can occur very quickly. Most often, allergic eye inflammation occurs in spring and summer, when there are a large number of allergens. The first step is to eliminate the irritant or limit contact with it. It is necessary to take antihistamines and vitamins to strengthen general immunity.

Herpetic

It is necessary to prescribe anti-inflammatory and antiviral drugs, eye and antiherpetic ointments (Bonafton, Virolex, Zovirax, Acyclovir). Orally Valtrex for herpes, immunomodulator Cycloferon or Polyoxidonium. Tobrex antibacterial eye drops with antibiotics or placing tetracycline, erythromycin ointment behind the lower eyelid.

Adenoviral

For uncomplicated keratoconjunctivitis, Poludan, Reaferon or Pyrogenal drops are prescribed. Depending on the complications, it is possible to take antiallergic and antiherpetic drugs. Glucocorticosteroids can eliminate signs of inflammation, but they are powerless against adenovirus, which quickly turns the disease into a chronic one (Tobradex, Dexamethasone, Sofradex).

Epidemic

Prescription of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs is required. Interferons and interferon inducers (Lokferon, Ophthalmoferon) are suitable for these purposes. In case of acute inflammation, therapy is supplemented with antiallergic drops (Allergoftal, Spersallerg) and oral antihistamines. The subacute form requires instillation of Lecrolin or Alamid.

If a film or rash appears on the cornea, corticosteroids are needed (Oftan-Dexamethasone, Dexapos, Maxidex). During a relapse, immunocorrective therapy (Taktivip) is performed. After epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, discomfort and decreased tear production may occur, which can be eliminated with Liquifilm and Poliglyukin.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Treatment consists of eliminating symptoms. The ophthalmologist prescribes vitamins, artificial tears, Lacrisin and petroleum jelly. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca requires the use of moisturizing drops. They help restore the natural film of the eyeball. The best in this group are Actovegin and Taufon.

Chlamydial

This form of keratoconjunctivitis can be cured only with the help of antibiotics (macrolides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones). Instillations of antibacterial (Ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin solution) and anti-inflammatory drops (Indomethacin, dexamethasone solution), applications of tetracycline or erythromycin ointment are recommended. Systemic treatment for chlamydia is also required.

Tuberculosis-allergic

Therapy should be comprehensive, with the joint work of an ophthalmologist and a phthisiatrician. First of all, steroid instillations (Dexasone, Hydrocortisone) are prescribed. To carry out desensitization, instillation of Dexamethasone, Prednisolone (1%), calcium chloride solution (3%) and diphenhydramine (2%) is indicated.

Corneal defects are eliminated using keratoplasty. If inflammation affects the iris, mydriatics are required. To prevent secondary infection, antibiotics, sulfonamides and bactericidal agents are prescribed. In the presence of extraocular foci of tuberculosis, specific tuberculostatic drugs should be taken.

Prevention of keratoconjunctivitis

In most cases, the prognosis for inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva is unfavorable. Only with timely detection of inflammation and proper treatment can complications be avoided (scarring of the mucous membrane, transition to a chronic form, otitis media, bacterial damage, blurred vision).

Since the causes of keratoconjunctivitis are varied, the best preventive measure would be general strengthening of the body, compliance with hygiene rules and timely treatment of any diseases. It is very important to control allergic reactions and fight helminthiasis.

Keratoconjunctivitis is a serious and dangerous condition that often results in severe deterioration of visual function. To preserve your vision and the ability to lead an active lifestyle, you need to monitor the condition of your eyes and respond to any changes in a timely manner.