Chapter Seven - The microbiome and keratitis

Abstract

Keratitis is an ocular surface disease that results in loss of visual acuity, corneal scarring, and potential blindness. Keratitis can be caused by infections to include viruses, bacteria, and fungi as well as chemical agents and trauma. Excessive immune responses against these insults is largely responsible for blinding disease and dampening those inflammatory responses can alleviate disease and preserve vision. Recently, attention has been focused on the nature of the microbiome and how it may affect ocular surface disease. Here, there will be a description of how the microbiome may modulate ocular surface immunity within the context of various forms of keratitis. In addition, there will be evidence showing how the microbiome may boost protective immunity to prevent infection and subsequent pathology.