Mechanisms of corneal ulceration

Corneal ulceration is a significant cause of visual morbidity. Although this discussion has primarily focused on the local factors involved in non-immune related sterile corneal ulcerations, an understanding of these mechanisms is important since a final common pathway that is conceivably relevant to all forms of corneal ulceration exists. With respect to the treatment of chronic sterile ulcerations, our contemporary armamentarium is extensive; an acknowledgement to the inadequacies of any single strategy. A sound appreciation of the subtleties involved in the pathogenesis of corneal ulceration and the orchestration of wound repair will lead us towards more effective strategies to decrease inflammation associated with ulceration, promote corneal wound healing, and ultimately provide better care for our patients.