Eye Infections By Herpes Simplex Virus

Overview

Eye Infection by Herpes Simplex Virus also known as herpes keratitis usually caused by the spread of the infection by either Herpes Simplex type 1 virus or type 2 virus which mainly affects the lips, mouth and genital area.

Signs and Symptoms

Painful blisters or vesicles around the eye, the lips and mouth or genital area, Fever, Excessive tearing of the eye, Redness of the eye, Sensitivity to light, Foreign body sensation in the eye

Common Causes

Sharing drinks or food with someone with herpes simplex virus infection, Kissing someone with herpes simplex virus infection, Sharing eating utensils with someone with herpes simplex virus infection, Sexual contact with someone with herpes simplex virus infection

Risk Factors

Injury to the eye, Have genital herpes infection, Have oral herpes infection, Weakened immune system

Investigation Techniques

Eye examination, Tzanck smear, Viral culture, Immunofluorescence, Serology

Treatment and Prevention

Oral acyclovir or famciclovir or valacyclovir, Antiviral eye drops, Steroid eye drops

Psychological Issues

Stress