Infection
One of the most common patient visits in our office is for infection. Infections can occur in the eyes or in surrounding tissues:
Eyelids
The most common entity is blepharitis, infection of the eyelids. This can be treated with lid hygiene and topical antibiotics. Deeper infection in the eyelid is called cellulitis and requires oral antibiotics. Rarely orbital infection originates from the sinuses and may require surgical intervention.
Eyes
Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is relatively common and is caused by viral or bacterial infection. Cases caused by bacteria are generally treated with topical antibiotics. Some viral infections are treatable with antivirals either in a topical or oral form.
Lacrimal system
Infection in the lacrimal gland (tear producing gland) and nasolacrimal duct (tear duct) are uncommon and require systemic antibiotics.
Cornea
Corneal infection (keratitis) is most often associated with contact lens wear. Topical therapy and cessation of contact lens wear is necessary. Occasionally the corneal condition progresses to a corneal ulcer which may result in intensive treatment.