What Can I Do About Ocular Herpes?
It is caused by the type 1 herpes simplex virus, and is a common, recurrent viral infection affecting the eyes. This type of herpes virus can cause inflammation and scarring of the cornea. Herpes of the eye can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person whose virus is active.
The National Eye Institute (NEI) says an estimated 400,000 Americans have experienced some form of ocular herpes, with close to 50,000 new and recurring cases occurring each year. Ranging from a simple infection to a condition that can possibly cause blindness, there are several forms of eye herpes
- Herpes keratitis is the most common form of eye herpes and is a viral corneal infection. Ocular herpes in this form generally affects only the top layer which is called the epithelium, of the cornea, and usually heals without scarring.
- Stromal keratitis occurs when the infection goes deeper into the layers of the cornea. This can lead to scarring, loss of vision and, occasionally, blindness. Although the condition is rare, the NEI reports that stromal keratitis is the leading cause of corneal scarring that subsequently causes blindness in the United States.
- Iridocyclitis is a serious form of eye herpes where the iris and surrounding tissues inside the eye become inflamed, causing severe sensitivity to light, blurred vision, pain and redness.
Researchers supported by DEF have made great progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of ocular herpes including its latency, reactivation, and scarring. Scientists continue to gain an understanding of LAT, the major virus gene active during herpes latency, including its central role in keeping the virus invisible between attacks and ways in which it inhibits the body’s immune response to the herpes infection.