Stephen J. Schueler, M.D.


Ultraviolet Keratitis Overview

What is ultraviolet keratitis?
A person with ultraviolet keratitis has inflammation of the cornea, caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. The cornea is the clear, firm cap that protects the pupil and the colored part of the eye. Ultraviolet light burns the cells that make up the surface of the cornea, resulting in inflammation. Common sources of ultraviolet light include arc welding and the sun.

What are the symptoms of ultraviolet keratitis?
Symptoms of ultraviolet keratitis include blurry vision, eye pain, eye redness, the sensation that there is something in the eye, increased sensitivity to bright light, and headache.

How does the doctor treat ultraviolet keratitis?
Most cases of ultraviolet keratitis heal with 48 hours, without treatment. Treatment for ultraviolet keratitis may include an eye patch, eye drops, or antibiotic ointment.

Continue to Ultraviolet Keratitis Symptoms

Last Updated: Jan 6, 2011 References

PubMed Ultraviolet Keratitis References