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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:55
Ex Vivo Organotypic Corneal Model of Acute Epithelial Herpes Simplex Virus Type I Infection
Published on: November 3, 2012
["Herpetic keratitis". Various expressions require different therapeutic approaches]
1Klinik für Augenheilkunde und Hochschulambulanz, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Kirrbergerstr. 1, 66424, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. berthold.seitz@uks.eu
Summary
Herpetic keratitis, caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), presents varied clinical forms. Early recognition and tailored treatment, including antiviral therapy, significantly improve outcomes, even post-keratoplasty.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a primary cause of infectious keratitis.
- Herpetic keratitis exhibits diverse clinical presentations, often termed a 'chameleon'.
- Effective management relies on recognizing these varied clinical forms.
Purpose:
- To outline the different clinical manifestations of herpetic keratitis.
- To emphasize the importance of tailored treatment strategies for each clinical type.
- To highlight current therapeutic approaches for managing HSV keratitis.
Summary:
- Herpetic keratitis presents as epithelial (dendritic/geographic), stromal (necrotizing/non-necrotizing), endotheliitis (disciform), neurotrophic keratopathy, and corneal scars.
- Ocular hypertension requires non-surgical management, avoiding prostaglandin analogues.
- Topical artificial tears and acyclovir ointment during quiescent periods help prevent recurrences.
- Systemic acyclovir (2x400mg/day) for at least one year is crucial after keratoplasty or for severe recurrences.
Impact:
- Knowledge of clinical variations enables ophthalmologists to adjust treatment effectively.
- Adequate management strategies have reduced the severity and 'terror' associated with HSV keratitis.
- Improved outcomes are achievable even in complex cases, including post-keratoplasty scenarios.
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