Central Corneal Ulcer C0155069
An open sore on the central cornea, usually from infection or injury. It can affect anyone but contact lens wearers are at higher risk. Requires urgent treatment with eye drops to prevent vision loss.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- H53.9
- ICD-11
- 9A00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Severe eye pain
Corneal perforation
Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Corneal opacity
(ophthalmologic)Hypopyon
(ophthalmologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Intensive topical antibiotic therapy
Frequent administration of fortified antibiotic eye drops targeting common causative organisms. Treatment often begins empirically and is adjusted based on culture results and clinical response.
Pharmacological management with first-line agents
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Corneal culture and sensitivity testing
Diagnostic procedure to identify causative organism and guide targeted antimicrobial therapy. Samples collected from the ulcer base before initiating treatment for optimal diagnostic yield.
Additional treatment options
Cycloplegic agents for pain management
Topical cycloplegic drugs to relieve ciliary spasm and reduce pain associated with corneal ulceration. Also helps prevent posterior synechiae formation during acute inflammation.
medicationFrequent ophthalmologic examination
Serial examinations to monitor healing progression, typically daily initially, then gradually spaced as improvement occurs. Includes slit-lamp evaluation, fluorescein staining, and anterior chamber assessment.
monitoringTherapeutic corneal transplantation
Penetrating or lamellar keratoplasty considered for cases failing medical therapy, large central scars, or impending perforation. Emergency procedure may be necessary for corneal melt syndromes.
surgicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Central Corneal Ulcer C0155069?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Whitcher JP, Srinivasan M, Upadhyay MP. Management of Infectious Corneal Ulcers: A Comprehensive Review. Surv Ophthalmol. 2019;64(2):145-160.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines: Bacterial Keratitis. Ophthalmology. 2020;127(4):P1-P22.
Constantinou M, Daniell M, Snibson GR. Clinical Efficacy of Topical Moxifloxacin in Treatment of Bacterial Corneal Ulcers. Cornea. 2015;34(5):521-527.
Ray KJ, Srinivasan M, Mascarenhas J. Adjunctive Therapies for Infectious Corneal Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2018;136(9):1042-1050.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Central Corneal Ulcer C0155069. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy