What defines keratitis?

Keratitis is defined specifically as the inflammation of the cornea. This condition can arise from various causes, including infections (such as bacterial, viral, or fungal), injuries, or underlying diseases. The inflammation results in symptoms such as redness, pain, watering of the eyes, and visual disturbances. By targeting the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye, keratitis can disrupt its transparency and functionality, potentially leading to more severe complications if not treated appropriately.

Other options relate to different ocular processes and conditions. For instance, the formation of new blood vessels typically indicates a condition known as neovascularization, which may occur as a response to prolonged inflammation or ischemia but is not the defining characteristic of keratitis itself. Necrosis of corneal tissue, while a possible consequence of severe keratitis or other corneal diseases, is not a definitive description of keratitis. Similarly, overproduction of lipids in the cornea pertains to conditions like lipid keratopathy and does not reflect the inflammation process that characterizes keratitis. Thus, the correct understanding of keratitis centers on the aspect of corneal inflammation.