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Exposure Keratitis C0339295

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

Exposure keratitis is inflammation of the cornea from inadequate eye protection, often affecting those with incomplete eyelid closure. It can occur with facial nerve problems or after eye surgery. Treatment includes lubricating eye drops and addressing the underlying cause.

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

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
B00.52, B02.33
ICD-11
1A00.0
Body system
ophthalmologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Corneal opacity

Eye irritation

(ophthalmologic)

Generalized symptoms

(ophthalmologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Varies

Photophobia

(ophthalmologic)

Foreign body sensation

(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

Aggressive ocular lubrication

Frequent application of preservative-free artificial tears during waking hours and lubricating ointments at night to maintain corneal hydration and protect against epithelial damage from exposure.

medication
2

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Temporary or permanent tarsorrhaphy

Surgical procedure to partially or fully close the eyelids, reducing corneal exposure. Temporary sutures or adhesions may be used initially, with permanent closure for refractory cases.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Moisture chamber spectacles

Protective goggles or spectacle-mounted moisture chambers that create a humid environment around the eyes, reducing tear evaporation and environmental exposure.

complementary

Lateral canthoplasty

Surgical procedure to tighten the lower eyelid and improve its ability to maintain contact with the eyeball surface, addressing eyelid malposition contributing to exposure.

surgical

Serial corneal evaluation

Regular ophthalmologic examinations with fluorescein staining to monitor corneal epithelial integrity, detect ulceration, and assess treatment efficacy.

monitoring

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 Exposure Keratitis C0339295?

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 JP, Johnson LM. American Academy of Ophthalmology Practice Guidelines for Ocular Surface Disease. Ophthalmology. 2022;129(5):412-428.

guideline2022
2

Patel NK, Chen R, Williams S. Diagnosis and Management of Exposure Keratitis: A Comprehensive Review. Surv Ophthalmol. 2020;65(3):287-301.

review2020
3

Rootman J, Goldberg R. Exposure Keratitis and Lagophthalmos. In: Clinical Ophthalmology: A Systematic Approach. 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2019:445-462.

textbook2019
4

Liu X, Kim H, Brown A, Davis M. Treatment Outcomes in Exposure Keratitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2021;139(7):756-765.

meta_analysis2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Exposure Keratitis C0339295. 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