Eye Infections: Symptoms & Warning Signs, Causes

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Eye infections, whether in animals or humans, present with a range of symptoms and are caused by various pathogens or immune responses. Understanding these symptoms and causes is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. In cats, common pathogens include FHV-1 and Mycoplasma spp., while in humans, conditions like dry eye disease may be linked to ACPAs. Identifying these factors can aid in developing targeted treatments and improving outcomes for affected individuals.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Eye infections can present with a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include ocular discharge, conjunctivitis, and redness of the eyes. In cats, for instance, these symptoms are frequently observed in shelters, where infections such as feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), Chlamydia felis, Mycoplasma spp., and feline calicivirus (FCV) are prevalent1. In humans, dry eye disease (DED) can also manifest with symptoms like ocular surface discomfort and inflammation, often linked to the presence of anti-citrullinated protein autoantibodies (ACPAs)2.

Causes

The causes of eye infections are diverse and can be attributed to various pathogens. In feline populations, FHV-1, Mycoplasma spp., and FCV are common culprits, with infections often exacerbated in environments like animal shelters1. In humans, dry eye disease can be associated with the presence of ACPAs, which contribute to ocular surface disease by promoting the production of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)2. These infections and conditions can be influenced by environmental factors, immune responses, and the presence of specific pathogens or autoantibodies.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.