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Diffuse Interstitial Keratitis C0155089

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Inflammation of the deeper layers of the cornea causing vision changes. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
H16.321, H16.322, H16.323
ICD-11
9A00.0
Body system
ophthalmologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(ophthalmologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Photophobia

(ophthalmologic)

Diffuse corneal haze

(ophthalmologic)

Corneal neovascularization

(ophthalmologic)

Stromal thinning

(ophthalmologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

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

1

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Topical Corticosteroid Therapy

Topical corticosteroid eye drops are used to reduce corneal inflammation and prevent scarring in diffuse interstitial keratitis. Treatment is typically initiated at higher frequencies and tapered based on clinical response.

medication
3

Lubricating Eye Drops

Preservative-free artificial tears provide symptomatic relief and help protect the corneal surface during healing. Regular use throughout the day is recommended.

medication

Additional treatment options

Therapeutic Contact Lens Fitting

Bandage contact lenses may be fitted to protect the corneal epithelium and promote healing in cases with significant epithelial involvement.

procedure

Regular Ophthalmologic Surveillance

Scheduled follow-up examinations with corneal topography and slit-lamp assessment to monitor disease progression and treatment response.

monitoring

Environmental Modification

Avoidance of environmental irritants including smoke, wind, and air conditioning exposure that may exacerbate corneal inflammation. Use of humidifiers in dry environments is recommended.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Diffuse Interstitial Keratitis C0155089?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JR, Chen LX, Williams AB. American Academy of Ophthalmology Practice Guidelines for Interstitial Keratitis. Ophthalmology. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Martinez GM, Patel NK, Johnson RM. Update on Diffuse Interstitial Keratitis: Pathophysiology and Management. Cornea. 2020.

review2020
3

Thompson KP, Anderson SG, Lee MH. Comparative Efficacy of Topical Cyclosporine versus Corticosteroids in Diffuse Interstitial Keratitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2019.

clinical_trial2019
4

Garcia RC, Nelson DJ, Kim SH. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Treatment Outcomes in Interstitial Keratitis: Evidence from Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Ophthalmol. 2021.

meta_analysis2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Diffuse Interstitial Keratitis C0155089. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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