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
