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Absence and decreased sensitivity of the cornea
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Corneal sensitivity disorders often provoke the development of keratitis. This pathology is known as neurotrophic keratitis, although the main etiologic factors are the disappearance of the tear film, a decrease in the frequency of blinking movements, and repeated corneal trauma, and not the neurotrophic factor.
A secondary nature of corneal sensitivity disorder is possible with damage to the 5th pair of cranial nerves in combination with:
- herpes zoster,
- trauma;
- intracranial tumors;
- herpes simplex;
- oculofacial syndrome;
- Goldenhar syndrome;
- leprosy;
- carbon disulfide and hydrogen sulfide poisoning;
- Riley-Day syndrome;
- MURCS syndrome.
With recurrent erosions and low efficiency of the treatment, the risk of secondary infection increases. Cases with concomitant lagophthalmos and pathology of the lacrimal apparatus are especially difficult to correct. This combination occurs in Riley-Day syndrome, leprosy and some brain tumors.
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Treatment of absence and decreased sensitivity of the cornea
Treatment includes the use of artificial tears and appropriate medications in the form of ointments. Periodically, in order to prevent secondary infection, antibiotic instillations are prescribed. In case of concomitant lagophthalmos, the eyelids are closed at night or tarsorrhaphy is performed.