Diabetic keratopathy

Diabetic keratopathy is a significant problem that is commonly overlooked and underdiagnosed by many healthcare providers. More than half of the diabetic population can have tear film changes, corneal epithelial abnormalities, neurotrophic keratopathy, and increased postoperative surgical complications. Clinical manifestations can be quite variable and thus diabetic patients with ocular complaints should be referred to an eye care professional. Treatment of diabetic keratopathy can be managed with a stepwise approach that includes increasing corneal surface lubrication, preventing infections of corneal epithelial defects with prophylactic antibiotic eye drops, and reducing exposure to avoid corneal melting .