photokeratitis; ultraviolet keratitis; snow blindness

Etiology

• exposure of eyes to ultraviolet radiation without sufficient eye protection
  • solar radiation
  • welding arcs
  • ultraviolet lamps
  • damaged metal halide lamps (gymnasiums, assemby halls)

Pathology

• results in sunburn of the conjunctiva & cornea

Clinical manifestations

• generally presents 6-12 hours after exposure
• eye pain, may be intensely painful
• photophobia
• tearing
• foreign body sensation
• associated facial erythema & edema are often present

Management

• prevention
  • appropriate eye protection
    • welding shield
    • sunglasses
• generally self-limited condition with complete recovery

More general terms

• keratitis