Abstract
Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is an inflammatory disease of the peripheral
cornea, which may frequently be associated with several rare, but potentially life-threatening
systemic diseases. The inflammatory pathogenesis of PUK results from humoral and cell-mediated
inflammation. The diagnosis is usually based on the typical clinical findings and
always requires detailed diagnostic testing to identify a potential systemic underlying
disease. Treatment includes topical and systemic immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory
therapeutic strategies and, in the event of impending or existing perforation, also
various surgical interventions. PUK is a potentially blinding disease that initially
affects the periphery, but, if left untreated, can lead to destruction of the entire
cornea. Interdisciplinary diagnostic testing and therapy are crucial to preserve vision
in the affected patients and reduce morbidity and mortality. The following article
provides an overview of the
pathophysiology, clinical findings, possible underlying systemic diseases, relevant
differential diagnoses and therapeutic strategies.
Keywords
keratitis - peripheral ulcerative keratitis - PUK
