szaruhártyagyulladást

Szaruhártyagyulladás, known in English as keratitis, is inflammation of the cornea, the transparent outer layer at the front of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. This inflammation can affect vision and cause significant discomfort.

The causes of keratitis are diverse. Infectious keratitis is commonly caused by bacteria, viruses (especially herpes simplex virus), fungi, and protozoa like Acanthamoeba. Non-infectious keratitis can result from dry eye syndrome, exposure to allergens, trauma to the eye (e.g., from contact lens wear, foreign bodies, or chemical splashes), or underlying autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of szaruhártyagyulladást typically include eye pain, redness, a feeling of something in the eye, light sensitivity (photophobia), blurred vision, excessive tearing, and discharge. In severe cases, it can lead to corneal ulcers, scarring, and permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, which may include a slit-lamp examination to visualize the cornea. Cultures of corneal scrapings may be taken to identify infectious agents.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For infectious keratitis, antimicrobial eye drops or ointments are prescribed. For non-infectious keratitis, treatment focuses on managing the underlying condition, such as artificial tears for dry eyes or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision.