Neurotrophic Keratitis Treatment in University Hills, California
Neurotrophic Keratitis — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- Persistent corneal epithelial defect that does not heal
- Reduced or absent corneal sensation
- Red eye with minimal pain (paradoxically)
- Blurred vision
- History of herpes eye infection, diabetes, or neurological surgery
Treatment Options
- Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
- Cenegermin (Oxervate) — recombinant nerve growth factor
- Amniotic Membrane Transplant
- Autologous Serum Eye Drops
- Tarsorrhaphy (partial eyelid closure)
Neurotrophic keratitis is a degenerative corneal disease caused by damage to the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), which provides sensory innervation to the cornea. Without normal nerve function, the cornea loses its ability to heal and maintain itself, leading to persistent epithelial defects, corneal ulceration, and potential perforation — often with minimal pain because the cornea has reduced sensation. Common causes include herpes simplex or zoster keratitis, diabetes, acoustic neuroma surgery, and trigeminal neuralgia procedures. Scleral lenses protect the corneal surface and promote healing by maintaining constant hydration.
Neurotrophic Keratitis can be influenced by Orange County's environmental factors—dry air, allergens, and UV exposure. University Hills residents experiencing corneal symptoms benefit from our specialized imaging and treatment capabilities.
Dr. Bonakdar on Neurotrophic Keratitis
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert neurotrophic keratitis diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.
What is Neurotrophic Keratitis?
Neurotrophic keratitis is a degenerative corneal disease caused by damage to the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), which provides sensory innervation to the cornea. Without normal nerve function, the cornea loses its ability to heal and maintain itself, leading to persistent epithelial defects, corneal ulceration, and potential perforation — often with minimal pain because the cornea has reduced sensation. Common causes include herpes simplex or zoster keratitis, diabetes, acoustic neuroma surgery, and trigeminal neuralgia procedures. Scleral lenses protect the corneal surface and promote healing by maintaining constant hydration.
How is Neurotrophic Keratitis treated?
Treatment options include Scleral Contact Lens Fitting, Cenegermin (Oxervate) — recombinant nerve growth factor, Amniotic Membrane Transplant, Autologous Serum Eye Drops. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.
What are the symptoms of Neurotrophic Keratitis?
Common symptoms include Persistent corneal epithelial defect that does not heal, Reduced or absent corneal sensation, Red eye with minimal pain (paradoxically), Blurred vision, History of herpes eye infection, diabetes, or neurological surgery. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.
What are the symptoms of Neurotrophic Keratitis?
University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:
- Persistent corneal epithelial defect that does not heal
- Reduced or absent corneal sensation
- Red eye with minimal pain (paradoxically)
- Blurred vision
- History of herpes eye infection, diabetes, or neurological surgery
- Corneal thinning or ulceration
How is Neurotrophic Keratitis treated?
Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:
Neurotrophic Keratitis FAQs for University Hills Patients
Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (949) 323-3600
We don't take Medi-Cal
Neurotrophic Keratitis Care for University Hills Residents
Corneal conditions like neurotrophic keratitis require specialized diagnostic equipment and clinical experience. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Our practice uses high-resolution corneal topography and anterior segment OCT to evaluate the cornea's structure layer by layer. This precision is essential for neurotrophic keratitis, where treatment decisions depend on accurate staging and documentation of changes over time. We develop individualized treatment plans that may include medicated drops, specialty lenses, or surgical referral when indicated.
About University Hills
Academic community surrounding UC Irvine
Population: 15,000+
Languages Spoken in University Hills
Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for University Hills
- Comprehensive eye examinations
- Contact lens fittings
- Glasses and eyewear
- Eye disease treatment
- Emergency eye care
Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from University Hills
University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.
801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get DirectionsUniversity Hills Neighborhoods We Serve
- University Park
- UCI Campus Area
Zip codes: 92617
Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Neurotrophic Keratitis
35+ Years of Experience
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating neurotrophic keratitis.
Advanced Diagnostics
OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.
Insurance Accepted
VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and most major vision and medical insurance plans. We do not accept Medi-Cal.
Convenient for University Hills
Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from University Hills and surrounding communities.
Your Neurotrophic Keratitis Specialist in University Hills
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating neurotrophic keratitis and complex eye conditions. A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.
Patient Stories from University Hills
See why your neighbors in University Hills trust us with their vision.
Comprehensive Exam
"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Neurotrophic Keratitis Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.