Risk factors, microbiological findings, and clinical outcomes in cases of microbial keratitis admitted to a tertiary referral center in ireland.

Aim: To identify the risk factors for, and to report the microbiological findings and clinical outcomes of, severe microbial keratitis (MK).

Methods: This was a retrospective study of all cases of presumed MK admitted to a tertiary referral center over a 2-year period (September 2001 to August 2003). Data recorded included demographic data, details relating to possible risk factors, results of microbiological studies, clinical findings at presentation, and clinical and visual outcomes.

The role of common viral ocular pathogens in Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis.

Background/aims: The aetiology of Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis (TSPK) remains elusive. A viral aetiology has been suggested by the absence of bacterial infection and clinical resemblance to other viral keratopathies. We report the results of polymerase chain reaction analysis for the detection of herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2, herpes zoster virus, varicella zoster virus (VZV) and adenovirus from corneal epithelial samples from patients with active signs and symptoms of TSPK.

Dry eye: diagnosis and current treatment strategies.

One in four patients attending ophthalmic clinics report symptoms of dry eye, making it one of the most common complaints seen by ophthalmologists. Aqueous-layer deficiency is the most common form of dry eye and is frequently caused by decreased secretion of tears by the lacrimal glands. Evaporative dry eye is often secondary to meibomian gland disease and results in a defective lipid layer.