Use of corticosteroids in combination with antimicrobial drugs in the treatment of infectious corneal disease

Ophthalmology. 1991 Jun;98(6):847-53. doi: 10.1016/s0161-6420(91)32211-5.

Abstract

The use of corticosteroids in the management of infectious eye disease is controversial. In this study, the authors attempt to analyze the goals and risks of the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of various forms of infectious keratitis with reference to generally recognized principles for the treatment of infectious diseases. Existing clinical and research data are reviewed in this context to make appropriate recommendations for the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of bacterial, fungal, and acanthamoeba keratitis. The authors conclude that corticosteroids are definitely contraindicated in the treatment of fungal keratitis, and relatively contraindicated in the treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Topical corticosteroid therapy may have a role in the treatment of bacterial keratitis if appropriate guidelines are followed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acanthamoeba Keratitis / drug therapy
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Contraindications
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Eye Infections / drug therapy*
  • Eye Infections, Bacterial / drug therapy
  • Eye Infections, Fungal / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Keratitis / drug therapy*
  • Keratitis / microbiology

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents