Download Optic Herpes

Optic Herpes
What is it?
Herpes simplex is a very common virus affecting the skin, mucous membranes, nervous system, and the
eye. There are two types of herpes simplex. Type I causes cold sores or fever blisters and may involve
the eye. Type II is sexually transmitted and rarely causes ocular problems.
Herpes Zoster can cause several problems with the eye and the surrounding skin and can have long term
effects. Typical problems that require treatment can include:
 Inflammation and scarring of the cornea
 Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva)
 Iritis (inflammation of the iris).
In some cases, the retina and optic nerve are involved.
Symptoms:






Pain
Red eye
Tearing
Light Sensitivity
Irritation, scratchiness
Decreased vision (depends on location and extent of infection)
Problems in the eye that are caused by severe or chronic outbreaks may
include:
 Glaucoma
 Cataract
 Double Vision
 Scarring of the cornea and eyelids
Detection and Diagnosis:
Herpes simplex is diagnosed with a slit lamp examination.
Tinted eye drops that highlight the affected areas of the cornea may be
instilled to help the doctor to determine the extent of the infection.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. It can be treated with topical and sometimes oral
anti-viral medications. The doctor may chose to scrap the affected areas of the cornea to remove the
diseased cells. If the patient experiences permanent corneal scarring as a result of severe and
reoccurring infections, they may require a corneal transplant to restore their vision.