Neurotrophic Keratitis: Managing a Sensitive Issue

Neurotrophic keratitis (NK) is a rare degenerative corneal disease that if left untreated can lead to infection, ulceration, stromal melting, perforation secondary to poor healing, and vision loss. Patients with early stages of NK may experience few symptoms, which makes diagnosis challenging and potentially puts them at risk for epithelial damage, as seen in later stages of disease. Testing to evaluate reduced corneal sensitivity and nerve damage is imperative in diagnosing NK. Current and emerging treatment options restore corneal sensitivity and promote healing of the ocular surface, thus halting disease progression when optimally integrated into treatment protocols. In this CME activity, experts in the field review the etiology of neurotrophic keratitis, methods that improve its early diagnosis, and evaluate how targeted treatment can improve outcomes in these patients.