DefinitionThe cornea is the transparent area at the front of the eyeball. A corneal ulcer is an erosion or open sore in the outer layer of the cornea. It is associated with infection.See also: Corneal injuryAlternative NamesBacterial keratitis; Fungal keratitis; Acanthamoeba keratitis; Herpes simplex keratitisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsCorneal ulcers are most commonly caused by an infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasite. Other causes include:Abrasions (scratches)Foreign bodies in the eyeInadequate eyelid closureSeverely dry eyesSevere allergic eye diseaseVarious inflammatory disordersContact lens wear, especially soft contact lenses worn overnight, may cause a corneal ulcer. Herpes simplex keratitis is a serious viral infection. It may cause repeated attacks that are t