Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the transparent
membrane that covers the colored part of the eye (iris) and
pupil of the eye. There are many types and causes of keratitis.
Keratitis occurs in both children and adults. Organisms cannot
generally invade an intact, healthy cornea. However, certain
conditions can allow an infection to occur. For example, a
scratch can leave the cornea open to infection. A very dry eye
can also decrease the cornea's protective mechanisms. Risk
factors that increase the likelihood of developing this
condition include: - poor contact lens care; overuse of contact
lenses - illnesses or other factors that reduces the body's
ability to overcome infection - cold sores, genital herpes, and
other viral infections - crowded, dirty living conditions; poor
hygiene - poor nutrition (especially a deficiency of Vitamin A,
which is essential for normal vision) Some common types of
keratitis are listed below, however there are many other forms.
Herpes simplex keratitis - chronic infla