Eye ulcer
Since being diagnosed with RA 6 months ago, I’ve developed eye ulcers in my cornea 2 times. My ophthalmologist says they’re caused by the herpes virus. Are these ulcers also related to RA?
Hi
. Sorry to hear you are having these eye issues. While not common corneal ulcers can occur with RA. For example, this research article looks at two cases and the successful treatment with biologic medications: https://bmcrheumatol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41927-019-0108-1. I also want to note that while the herpes virus may be a cause, if infection is the cause it can be from a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. In addition, direct injury to the eye can be a cause. Hoping you get some answers and relief soon. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team) thank you so much for the info!
Hi
. Richard gave you some great information. It's also possible that the flaring of your RA has reduced your immunity and allowed the herpes virus to come out of remission. Has your doctor considered a daily does of acyclovir to keep it at bay? Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member) I’ll be taking a maintenance dose of Acylovir for a year!
Awesome! I hope it helps,
. Thinking of you! - Lori (Team Member)
I don't know if they're related to RA, but I do know they can be caused by other things. My dog just recovered from corneal ulcers. Don't know what caused them. Ironically she went hypothyroid for the first time ever. As I sit and think about it, when I went hypothyroid 30 years ago I also had Sjogrens Syndrome. My point is that sometimes things have a domino effect....or just seem to happen all at once....like opening the floodgates. Hope you have the appropriate meds for the corneal ulcers.
