Thermal/UV Keratopathy true statement?

Thermal/UV Keratopathy true statement?

• A. It damages epithelium and Bowman's Layer
• B. It involves the Endothelium
• C. It damages only the Epithelium
• D. It affects Descemet's Membrane

Answer: (A)

Thermal/UV keratopathy is a superficial injury of the cornea from ultraviolet or thermal exposure. The damage is strongest in the anterior layers, particularly the epithelium and Bowman's layer. The epithelial cells take the hit from UV light, leading to cell death and sloughing, and Bowman's membrane can be disrupted as the epithelium detaches. Deeper layers—the stroma, Descemet's membrane, and the endothelium—are typically spared in the acute phase, which is why vision often recovers quickly as the epithelium regenerates from limbal stem cells. Clinically, this presents with pain, tearing, photophobia, and a foreign-body sensation, resolving within 24–48 hours with supportive care. So, the statement that it damages the epithelium and Bowman's layer best reflects the usual site of injury.

Thermal/UV keratopathy is a superficial injury of the cornea from ultraviolet or thermal exposure. The damage is strongest in the anterior layers, particularly the epithelium and Bowman's layer. The epithelial cells take the hit from UV light, leading to cell death and sloughing, and Bowman's membrane can be disrupted as the epithelium detaches. Deeper layers—the stroma, Descemet's membrane, and the endothelium—are typically spared in the acute phase, which is why vision often recovers quickly as the epithelium regenerates from limbal stem cells. Clinically, this presents with pain, tearing, photophobia, and a foreign-body sensation, resolving within 24–48 hours with supportive care. So, the statement that it damages the epithelium and Bowman's layer best reflects the usual site of injury.