Keratitis C0022568
Inflammation of the cornea, often caused by infection, injury, or underlying conditions. Prompt treatment is important to prevent vision complications.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- A18.52, A50.31, A54.33
- 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 ulceration
Eye redness
(ophthalmologic)Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Varies
Eye discharge
(ophthalmologic)Foreign body sensation
(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
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Topical Antimicrobial Agents
Depending on suspected etiology, topical antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal agents are used to treat infectious keratitis. Empirical therapy may be initiated while awaiting culture results.
Anti-inflammatory Eye Drops
Corticosteroid eye drops may be used to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring, typically after antimicrobial therapy has begun to control infection.
Additional treatment options
Ophthalmologic Evaluation
Regular slit-lamp examinations are essential to monitor disease progression, assess treatment response, and detect potential complications such as corneal ulceration or perforation.
monitoringTherapeutic Corneal Transplant
Penetrating or lamellar keratoplasty may be necessary for severe cases with corneal scarring, perforation, or when medical therapy fails to control infection.
surgicalEye Protection and Hygiene
Wearing protective eyewear, avoiding contact lens use during infection, and maintaining strict ocular hygiene helps prevent worsening and recurrence of keratitis.
lifestyleWhen 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 Keratitis C0022568?
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.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Preferred Practice Pattern for Microbial Keratitis Management. Ophthalmology. 2022.
Srinivasan M, Mascarenhas J, Rajarathnam K. Efficacy of Topical Voriconazole Versus Natamycin in Fungal Keratitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Ophthalmol. 2020.
Bourcier T, Gueudry J, Doan S. Update on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acanthamoeba Keratitis. Cornea. 2021.
McLeod SD, Kryscio J, Acharya N. Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus and Infectious Corneal Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2023.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Keratitis C0022568. 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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy