Corneal ulcers form when the surface of the cornea is damaged or compromised. Corneal ulcers are epithelial tissue loss from corneal surface and
is usually associated with the inflammation of the cornea. It may be caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Contact lens wearers (especially soft) have an increased risk of ulcers if they do not adhere to strict regimens for the cleaning, handling, and disinfection of their lenses and cases. Certain diseases can compromise the corneal surface, such as diabetes and
Sjorgren’s Syndrome, creating a window of opportunity for organisms to infect the cornea. Patients with severely dry eyes, difficulty blinking or are unable to care for themselves are also at risk.