Interstitial keratitis

Interstitial Keratitis

Interstitial Keratitis (IK) is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the stroma, which is the middle, thick layer of the cornea. This condition leads to the potential for significant vision impairment due to the cornea's critical role in focusing vision. Interstitial Keratitis is often associated with infectious diseases, particularly congenital or acquired syphilis, but can also be linked to other bacterial, viral, and autoimmune causes.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of Interstitial Keratitis historically has been congenital syphilis, transmitted from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy. However, with the advent of more effective treatments and preventive measures for syphilis, the number of IK cases related to it has decreased in many parts of the world. Other infectious agents that can cause IK include tuberculosis, Lyme disease, and herpes simplex virus. Non-infectious causes may include autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Interstitial Keratitis can vary but typically include:

• Redness of the eye
• Pain
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred vision
• Tears or discharge

The onset of symptoms can be gradual or sudden, and the severity can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to vision loss if not treated promptly and effectively.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Interstitial Keratitis involves a comprehensive eye examination. A healthcare provider may use a slit lamp to examine the eye in detail. In some cases, blood tests or other diagnostic measures may be necessary to identify the underlying cause, especially if an infectious or autoimmune disease is suspected.

Treatment

Treatment of Interstitial Keratitis focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation and relieving symptoms. If the condition is caused by an infection, antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications may be prescribed. In cases where an autoimmune disease is the underlying cause, corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs may be used to reduce inflammation.

In addition to medical treatment, supportive care such as the use of lubricating eye drops or ointments, wearing sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity, and avoiding irritants can help alleviate symptoms.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Interstitial Keratitis varies depending on the cause and the promptness of treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to a good prognosis, with many individuals experiencing a significant improvement in symptoms and a decrease in the risk of long-term vision impairment. However, in some cases, IK can lead to complications such as corneal scarring or glaucoma, which may have a more significant impact on vision.

Prevention

Preventing Interstitial Keratitis involves controlling the underlying causes that can lead to the condition. This includes treating infectious diseases, managing autoimmune conditions, and adopting healthy lifestyle practices to reduce the risk of infections that could potentially lead to IK.