Best of 2025: Advancing recognition and treatment of neurotrophic keratitis
Our most-read neurotrophic keratitis coverage of 2025 highlights meaningful progress across diagnosis and management of this rare corneal disease. From surgical innovations such as minimally invasive corneal neurotization to disease-modifying medical therapy and expert guidance on distinguishing neurotrophic keratitis from other ocular surface conditions, these articles underscore the importance of early recognition and comprehensive care to preserve vision.
Minimally invasive corneal neurotization improves outcomes in neurotrophic keratopathy
A retrospective study from West Virginia University found that minimally invasive corneal neurotization was safe and effective for treating advanced neurotrophic keratopathy in a rural, socioeconomically disadvantaged population, with all 13 patients achieving durable corneal epithelialization over an average 18-month follow-up. Most patients experienced improvements in corneal sensation and visual acuity, with statistically significant vision gains maintained through final follow-up.
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Spotlight on Oxervate®
Neurotrophic keratitis is a rare, degenerative corneal disease caused by impaired corneal innervation that can progress to epithelial breakdown, ulceration, and vision loss if left untreated. Oxervate (cenegermin-bkbj), the first and only FDA-approved therapy for neurotrophic keratitis, targets the underlying nerve damage and has demonstrated high rates of complete corneal healing in clinical trials, with many patients maintaining healing long term. Clinicians report using Oxervate early in treatment to promote epithelial closure and support sustained corneal health.
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Is it neurotrophic keratitis or a different ocular condition?
Neurotrophic keratitis is a rare, progressive corneal disease that can be mistaken for dry eye disease or other ocular surface disorders, but is distinguished by reduced corneal sensation despite significant staining (“stain without pain”). Experts emphasize that corneal sensitivity testing and careful clinical evaluation are essential for early diagnosis, as timely recognition and follow-up can help prevent progression and permanent vision loss.
Read the full article here.
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