Corneal ulcer: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which of the following is the correct management of a corneal ulcer?
A. Antibacterial drops
B. Emergent ophthalmologist referral
C. Patch the eye and follow-up in 2 to 4 weeks
D. Oral antibiotics and aggressive eye irrigation
E. Reassurance
Answer and topic summary
The answer is B. Emergent ophthalmologist referral
A corneal ulcer is essentially a defect in the corneal epithelium. Risk factors include prolonged steroid eye drops, Bell palsy, herpes simplex or zoster, eye trauma, dry eyes, and wearing contact lenses. It classically is a complication of bacterial keratitis. Clinical features may include eye pain, photophobia blurry vision, and eye redness. Ulcers can result in permanent scarring and vision loss and an ophthalmologist should be consulted emergently.
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