Herpes simplex keratitis

This article reviews the current concepts for the diagnosis and treatment of Herpes simplex keratitis and its complications, discussing characteristics of the virus, the prevalence of the disease, chemical and clinical differentiation between Types I and II Herpesvirus hominis, and the many clinical presentations of Type I disease. The antiviral agents commonly in use are reviewed, covering the historical development of the drugs, indications for their use and the associated toxic and untoward reactions. An outline for the medical treatment of the different forms of Herpes simplex keratitis is given, as well as the indications for surgical intervention in the treatment of the disease. The surgical complications and results following keratoplasty are discussed.