Ultraviolet Keratitis (Photokeratitis)

Ultraviolet Keratitis (Photokeratitis)
SYMPTOMS Pain | Photophobia | Blurry vision | Tearing
SIGNS Dense, diffuse punctate corneal epithelial defects | Injection | Tearing
WORK-UP Thorough history. Slit lamp examination with NaFl dye
TREATMENT
Copious use of preservative-free artificial tears | Bandage contact lens | Cycloplegic drop (cyclopentolate 1% 1 gtt bid) | Oral acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen | Steroids are sometimes used to improve patient symptoms but may prolong epithelial healing
Topical antibiotic drops or ointment can be used: Polytrim (drop) 1 gtt qid | Erythromycin (ointment) qid
FOLLOW-UP Daily
ADDITIONAL LAB | TESTS None
ETIOLOGY UV exposure (i.e. reflections from snow, welding, etc.)
DIFFERENTIAL DX Medicamentosa | Dry eye syndrome | Exposure keratopathy | Chemical burn
NOTES Symptoms are usually delayed