What Is Ocular Eye Herpes?

Ocular (meaning eye) herpes is a condition that arises when a herpes simplex virus (generally HSV-1, which causes cold sores) infects the eye. HSV-1 can impact different parts of the eye, leading to several different conditions.

Features

People who develop ocular herpes commonly infect their own eyes by touching them after touching a herpes sore.

Identification

The area of the eye most commonly affected by ocular herpes is the cornea, which is clear and covers the front area of the eye. This condition is known as herpes simplex keratitis, according to Medline Plus.

Effects

Herpes simplex keratitis can sometimes cause scarring on the cornea. According to the Mayo Clinic, this is the number one cause of blindness in the United States.

Types

Other herpes infections of the eye include uveitis, which affects the inner part of the eye, and retinitis, which impacts the retina, according to Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the Univesity of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Retinitis can also lead to blindness.

Treatment

The treatment of herpes simplex infections of the eye varies based on which part of the eye is infected. According to the UIC, treatment may include antiviral or steroidal eye drops and the removal of affected cells.

References

• Medline Plus: Corneal Ulcers and Infections
• Mayo Clinic: Cold Sore Complications
• UIC: Ocular Herpes Simplex