Corneal infections
What is a Corneal infection?
A corneal infection, also known as infective keratitis, occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade the cornea
Corneal infections can affect anyone, but they are more common in people who wear contact lenses, have had a previous eye injury, or have a weakened immune system.
The cornea plays a crucial role in focusing light and protecting the inner structures of the eye, so any infection can have a significant impact on vision if not treated promptly.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of a corneal infection can develop rapidly and are often quite noticeable. These typically include eye pain or aching, redness, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), excessive watering or discharge, and a sensation that something is in your eye.
You may also notice a reduction in your vision or a white or grey spot on the cornea. Symptoms can worsen quickly, particularly with bacterial infections, and it is essential not to delay seeking medical attention.
If you wear contact lenses and develop any of these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and seek urgent advice.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends on the type of organism causing the infection. Bacterial infections are typically treated with intensive antibiotic eye drops, often applied very frequently in the first 24 to 48 hours. Viral infections, such as those caused by the herpes simplex virus, are managed with antiviral drops or tablets.
Fungal and parasitic infections (such as Acanthamoeba, which can be linked to contact lens use) require specialist antimicrobial therapy and are often more challenging to treat. In all cases, prompt diagnosis is essential, and a specialist may take a small swab from the cornea to identify the causative organism and guide treatment.
After a thorough eye examination, your specialist may take a corneal swab or scrape — a quick and straightforward procedure carried out under local anaesthetic drops — to identify the type of infection. Treatment is then commenced or adjusted based on the results.
Most patients are managed with prescribed eye drops, which may need to be applied very frequently — sometimes every hour — particularly in the early stages. You will be monitored closely with regular appointments to assess your response to treatment and make any necessary changes.
What are the risks?
If diagnosed and treated promptly, many corneal infections can be resolved with minimal lasting effects. However, delayed or inadequate treatment significantly increases the risk of complications.
These can include corneal scarring, which may cause permanent changes to vision, or perforation of the cornea in very severe cases. Some infections — particularly fungal or parasitic types — can be difficult to treat and may require prolonged courses of medication. There is also a risk of recurrence, particularly with viral infections.
Your specialist will advise on steps to reduce these risks and monitor your recovery closely throughout the treatment period.
What can I expect following treatment?
Recovery from a corneal infection varies depending on the severity and type of infection. During treatment, your eye is likely to remain red, sore, and sensitive to light, and your vision may be reduced. As the infection resolves, discomfort should gradually ease and vision may begin to improve, though this can take several weeks.
You will have regular follow-up appointments to ensure the infection is clearing and that your cornea is healing well. If scarring has occurred, further treatment options — including corneal transplantation — may be considered at a later stage to improve vision if needed.
Our Treatments and Price List
| New patient consultation | £250-£280 |
| Follow up appointment | £175-£220 |
| Mucosal graft to conjunctiva | £800 - £1600 |
If you would like to discuss Ophthalmology treatments, please get in touch with a member of our team
