Brief introduction
At the front of the eye is a clear layer of tissue called the cornea. The cornea is like a window that lets light enter the eye. Tears defend the cornea against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.A corneal ulcer is an open sore that forms on the cornea. It’s usually caused by an infection. Even small injuries to the eye or erosion caused by wearing contact lenses too long can lead to infections.Ulcers are characterized by corneal epithelial defects with underlying inflammation and necrosis of the corneal stroma. Corneal ulcers tend to heal with scar tissue, resulting in opacification of the cornea and decreased visual acuity. Uveitis, corneal perforation with iris prolapse, pus in the anterior chamber (hypopyon), panophthalmitis, and destruction of the eye may occur without treatment and, on occasion, even with the best available treatment, particularly if treatment is delayed. More severe symptoms and complications tend to occur with deeper ulcers.