CORNEAL AND CONJUNCTIVAL INFECTIONS

Infectious keratitis is a frequent and important problem for the ophth almologist. Herpes simplex virus is a common pathogen for corneal infe ction. The biology of the virus is well known, but some points of its interaction with corneal stroma that cause chronic recurrent infection are hypothesized. The role of glycoproteins of the cell surface that appear in inflammation, such as the intercellular adhesion molecule-1, seems to be important. Another aspect of the infection is the rapid d etection of superficial lesions. The use of new techniques such as imm une reaction on impression cytology is interesting but needs confirmat ion. Acanthamoeba is another problematic pathogen, especially therapeu tically. Nevertheless, new drugs such as dimethyl sulfoxide and polyhe xanide show a potential role in the treatment. Bacterial keratitis is easier to treat until the appearance of new pathogens such as nontuber culosis mycobacteria. These pathogens are difficult to treat, but in t he new therapeutic class of quinolones, ciprofloxacin is effective in animal models. Clinically, however, this drug is limited by the resist ance that occurs in patients.