exposure keratitis

Exposure keratitis is a type of keratitis, which is the inflammation of the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye. This specific form occurs when the cornea becomes dry and inflamed due to the inability to close the eyelids completely. This can happen because of a protruding eyeball or paralysis of the eyelid muscles.1

Symptoms include dryness and inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. If not treated, it can lead to serious corneal problems due to the chronic exposure of the eye's surface. Initial treatment involves aggressive eye lubrication. If this is insufficient, procedures to close tear drainage holes or surgery to partially close the eyelids may be necessary.12