Also called Ulcerative Keratitis. Inflammatory or infective condition.EyesEncyclopedia Entry for Corneal Ulcer :Corneal ulcers and infections. Corneal ulcers are most commonly caused by an infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or a parasite. Acanthamoeba keratitis occurs in contact lens users. It is more likely to happen in people who make their own homemade cleaning solutions. Fungal keratitis can occur after a corneal injury involving plant material. It may also occur in people with a suppressed immune system. Herpes simplex keratitis is a serious viral infection. It may cause repeated attacks that are triggered by stress, exposure to sunlight, or any condition that lowers the immune response. Corneal ulcers or infections may also be caused by: Eyelids that do not close all the way, such as with Bell palsy Foreign bodies in the eye Scratches (abrasions) on the eye surface Severely dry eyes Severe allergic eye disease Various inflammatory disorders Wearing contact lenses, such as soft contacts that are left in overnight, may cause a corneal ulcer. Corneal injury Watch this video about: Corneal injury.Symptoms of infection or ulcers of the cornea include: Blurry or hazy vision Eye that appears red or bloodshot Itching and discharge Sensitivity to light (photophobia) Very painful and watery eyes White patch on the cornea.Your health care provider will do the following tests: Exam of scrapings from the ulcer Fluorescein stain of the cornea Keratometry (measuring the curve of the cornea) Pupillary reflex response Refraction test Slit-lamp examination Tests for dry eye Visual acuity Blood tests to check for inflammatory disorders may also be needed.Treatment for corneal ulcers and infections depends on the cause. Treatment should be started as soon as possible to prevent scarring of the cornea. If the exact cause is not known, you may be given antibiotic drops that work against many kinds of bacteria. Once the exact cause is known, you may be given drops that treat bacteria, herpes, other viruses, or a fungus. Severe ulcers sometimes require a corneal transplant. Corticosteroid eye drops may be used to reduce swelling and inflammation in certain conditions. Your provider may also recommend that you: Avoid eye makeup DO NOT wear contact lenses at all, or do not wear them at night Take pain medicines Wear protective glasses.Many people recover completely and have only a minor change in vision. However, a corneal ulcer or infection can cause long-term damage and affect vision.Untreated corneal ulcers and infections may lead to: Loss of the eye (rare) Severe vision loss Scars on the cornea.Call your provider if: You have symptoms of corneal ulcers or an infection. You have been diagnosed with this condition and your symptoms become worse after treatment. Your vision is affected. You develop eye pain that is severe or becoming worse. Your eyelids or the skin around your eyes becomes swollen or red. You have a headache in addition to your other symptoms.Things you can do to prevent the condition include: Wash your hands well when handling your contact lenses. Avoid wearing contact lenses overnight. Get prompt treatment for an eye infection to prevent ulcers from forming.Bacterial keratitis; Fungal keratitis; Acanthamoeba keratitis; Herpes simplex keratitis.Eye Eye.Groos EB Jr, Chang BH. Complications of contact lenses.