For a keratitis case involving a contact lens wearer, which antibiotic is appropriate as first-line therapy?

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Multiple Choice

For a keratitis case involving a contact lens wearer, which antibiotic is appropriate as first-line therapy?

Infectious keratitis from contact lens wearers is most dangerous when it involves Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bug that can cause rapid corneal damage. The goal of first-line therapy is to quickly achieve high drug levels at the cornea to kill bacteria and limit injury. Tobramycin, given as a topical drop, is an aminoglycoside with strong activity against Pseudomonas and good corneal penetration, so it delivers immediate, targeted bacterial kill right at the site of infection. This makes it a reliable initial empiric choice while culture results are pending. Erythromycin doesn’t reliably cover Gram-negative organisms like Pseudomonas, and vancomycin targets Gram-positive organisms, so neither is appropriate for first-line keratitis in a contact lens wearer. Ciprofloxacin would also cover Pseudomonas and is a valid alternative, but tobramycin is a classic first-line option in many practice settings due to its proven efficacy and topical delivery.

For a keratitis case involving a contact lens wearer, which antibiotic is appropriate as first-line therapy?

Prepare for the Hippo Urgent Care Bootcamp Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions to gain insights and explanations. Ace your upcoming exam!

For a keratitis case involving a contact lens wearer, which antibiotic is appropriate as first-line therapy?

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