Filamentary Keratitis C0155077
An eye condition where fine filaments form on the cornea, causing irritation and sensitivity to light. Treatment includes eye drops and removing the filaments to relieve discomfort.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- H16.121, H16.122, H16.123
- ICD-11
- 9A00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Eye pain
(ophthalmologic)Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Filamentary keratitis
(ophthalmologic)Foreign body sensation
(ophthalmologic)Photophobia
(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
Exercise prescription and weight management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Lubricating Eye Drops
Prescription or over-the-counter artificial tears to lubricate the ocular surface and help remove filaments from the cornea. May include sodium hyaluronate or carboxymethylcellulose formulations.
Filament Removal
Office-based procedure where eye care professionals gently remove filaments using fine forceps or a cotton swab after topical anesthetic application. Often combined with corneal scraping to prevent recurrence.
Additional treatment options
Topical Anti-inflammatory Agents
Short-term topical corticosteroid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drops to reduce corneal inflammation and prevent new filament formation. Used when inflammation contributes to the condition.
medicationEnvironmental Humidification
Use of room humidifiers and warm compresses to increase ocular surface moisture, particularly beneficial in dry environments or for patients with aqueous tear deficiency.
lifestyleOphthalmology Follow-up
Regular eye examinations to monitor corneal healing, assess treatment efficacy, and detect any complications such as stromal scarring or persistent epithelial defects.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Filamentary Keratitis C0155077?
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.
Tavassoli S, Brown SM. Filamentary keratitis: pathogenesis and management strategies. Ocul Surf. 2020;18(4):631-637.
Akpek EK, Dart JK, Watson S, et al. Management of filamentary keratitis: consensus recommendations from the International Ocular Surface Society. Br J Ophthalmol. 2022;106(5):612-618.
Kumar RL, Kowalski RP, Kim SH. Autologous serum tears versus conventional therapy for filamentary keratitis: a randomized controlled trial. Cornea. 2019;38(7):823-829.
Hashemi H, Nabovati P, Malekahmadi M, Yekta A. Efficacy of punctal plugs and mucolytic agents in the treatment of filamentary keratitis: systematic review and meta-analysis. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2021;44(5):101408.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Filamentary Keratitis C0155077. 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