It may be a sign of neurotrophic keratitis (NK)1
If the cornea lights up with fluorescein staining—and corneal sensitivity is reduced—it may be NK.1 Learn more about this degenerative corneal disease and why it’s important to diagnose as early as possible.
About NK
It may be a sign of neurotrophic keratitis (NK)1
If the cornea lights up with fluorescein staining—and corneal sensitivity is reduced—it may be NK.1 Learn more about this degenerative corneal disease and why it’s important to diagnose as early as possible.
About NK
About NK
LOSS OF CORNEAL NERVE FUNCTION IS A KEY CHARACTERISTIC OF NK
Neurotrophic keratitis (NK) is a degenerative ocular disease caused by impairment of the corneal nerves and characterized by loss of corneal sensitivity.1
Early signs of NK may overlap with features of recalcitrant dry eye, and, as a result, it can go unrecognized.1 Because corneal nerves play a key role in maintaining the integrity of the cornea, it’s important to identify NK early—to help maintain ocular surface homeostasis before the disease progresses.1
NK PROGRESSION
NK Progression
THE STAGES OF NK
One way to assess the severity of neurotrophic keratitis (NK) is to use a 3-stage system known as the Mackie classification, where severity is characterized by the degree of corneal epithelial and stromal involvement ranging from superficial punctate keratopathy to persistent epithelial defects and ulcers.1
If not properly diagnosed and managed, mild (Stage 1) to moderate (Stage 2) NK can progress to severe disease (Stage 3), with risk of vision loss from scarring, corneal melting, and perforation.1
Mild2
Stage 1
Moderate2
Stage 2
Severe2
Stage 3
Images show NK in 3 different patients.
Recognizing NK
recognizing nk
NK may be mistaken for other ocular conditions
Evaluating a patient’s medical history and assessing common risk factors are crucial to identifying neurotrophic keratitis (NK)—especially in the earlier stages of the disease.3
For example, people who have had herpetic eye disease, ocular surgery, or diabetes can be at greater risk of developing NK.1,3
Diagnosing NK
Not actual patients.
Diagnosing nk
IF THIS FEELS OK, IT MAY BE NK
For some ocular conditions, eye discomfort or pain is a clear symptom. But in patients with neurotrophic keratitis (NK), decreased corneal sensitivity is a hallmark sign.1 “STAIN WITHOUT PAIN” can be an indicator of early-stage NK that may not be otherwise recognized.1,4 Corneal sensitivity testing, which can be done with something as simple as a cotton wisp, can help you determine if a patient has NK.1
Diagnosing nk
IF THIS FEELS OK, IT MAY BE NK
For some ocular conditions, eye discomfort or pain is a clear symptom. But in patients with neurotrophic keratitis (NK), decreased corneal sensitivity is a hallmark sign.1 “STAIN WITHOUT PAIN” can be an indicator of early-stage NK that may not be otherwise recognized.1,4 Corneal sensitivity testing, which can be done with something as simple as a cotton wisp, can help you determine if a patient has NK.1
References: 1. Dua HS, Said DG, Messmer EM, et al. Neurotrophic keratopathy. Prog Retin Eye Res. 2018;66:107-131. 2. Data on File: Dompé Image Library. Dompé U.S. 3. Mastropasqua L, Massaro-Giordano G, Nubile M, Sacchetti M. Understanding the pathogenesis of neurotrophic keratitis: the role of corneal nerves. J Cell Physiol. 2017;232(4):717-724. 4. Sacchetti M, Lambiase A. Diagnosis and management of neurotrophic keratitis. Clin Ophthalmol. 2014;8:571-579.