Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis

Herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) is a severe infectious corneal disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSK is the most prevalent infectious corneal disease globally. It is primarily transmitted through close contact. According to epidemiological surveys in China, HSK ranks first among infectious corneal diseases in the country, with a prevalence rate of 110 per 100,000 people. In recent years, there has been a significant upward trend. Herpes simplex virus infection is divided into two types: primary and recurrent: Primary infection: Commonly seen in children with no immunity to the virus. Most patients in this category do not show clinical symptoms. Recurrent infection: Usually presents with typical clinical symptoms. Based on different clinical manifestations, it can be classified into epithelial keratitis, neurotrophic keratopathy, stromal keratitis, and endothelial keratitis.