Epidemic Keratocunjunctivitis Treatment and Management

Abstract

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is a viral conjunctival and corneal inflammation with high contagiosity, which, if is not adequately treated, may cause blurred vision for several years. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, as well to present the latest news regarding diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis. Are known two well-defined clinical syndromes of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis: epidemic keratoconjunctivitis and faringococcal fever, which are caused by various serotypes of adenoviruses. The exact incidence of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis is not known. However, it mainly occurs during the winter months. Infection can occur during direct contact or through equipment, devices in ophthalmologic ambulances, etc. The virus is extremely resistant to various chemical and physical agents. Symptomatology is similar to other types of conjunctivitis, with high incidence of conjunctival pseudo membrane formation. In the cornea, the changes varying from epithelial punctate keratitis to sub epithelial infiltrates and the creation of nummular keratitis that leads to visual impairment. Diagnosis is mainly clinically decided, and etiology can be confirmed based on cell culture analysis. Conclusion: Until now there is no approved therapy against epidemic adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis. Uncontrolled use of antibiotics, particularly corticosteroids, which reduce tissue resistance, is responsible for the deterioration of such conditions. Priority in prevention EKC is the rigorous application of hygienic disinfectant measures in hospital areas, respectively medical devices in ophthalmologic ambulatory services.