What is the most likely cause for superficial neovascularization in a patient?

Superficial neovascularization in the cornea is primarily associated with conditions that cause irritation or compromise to the superficial layers of the cornea. Persistent superficial corneal ulcers create an ongoing inflammatory response that prompts the body to help heal the affected area.

In response to the persistent damage, new blood vessels begin to grow towards the site to supply necessary nutrients and oxygen, contributing to the healing process. This phenomenon is called neovascularization because it involves the formation of new blood vessels in an area where they are not typically present.

While deep corneal damage, systemic hypertension, and neurological disorders can have various ocular implications, they are less directly related to the development of superficial neovascularization. Deep corneal damage, for example, typically affects deeper structures and may induce different types of complications, while systemic hypertension might not specifically lead to superficial alterations in the cornea. Neurological disorders may impact reflexes and control but do not directly initiate superficial corneal disease. Therefore, persistent superficial corneal ulcers are the leading cause in this context.