Desiccation Keratitis

Summary(1) Temporary damage has been caused to the eyes of soldiers serving in the North African desert. The site is the corneal epithelium and the condition is transient.(2) Discomfort, photophobia and impairment of vision are the outstanding symptoms.(3) It is probable that the cause is drying of the corneal epithelium by a hot, dry wind which causes excessive evaporation of the lachrymal secretion over the exposed area of the cornea.(4) The suggestion is put forward that corneal damage ascribed to snow-blindness is really caused, certainly in part, by desiccation and perhaps also freezing of the corneal epithelium and not by excessive ultra-violet light reflections.(5) The condition could be prevented by the wearing of goggles.(6) The name Desiccation Keratitis is suggested for the condition.