Microorganisms and Common Ophthalmic Diseases

The human eye is in constant contact to environmental conditions that increase its likelihood in being exposed to a multitude of pathogens. Studies have revealed that the normal microbial flora found around the ocular area contribute to the well-being of ocular health as they play a critical role in inhibiting the proliferation of other pathogenic species and maintaining the homeostatic balance. However an imbalance in this status quo may lead to diseases including dry eye syndrome, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), blepharitis, rosacea, allergies, keratitis, conjunctivitis and immunological conditions such as mucous membrane pemphigoid and Sjogren's syndrome. Thus, it is important to investigate and understand the role of various microorganisms that lead to these ocular diseases, and this knowledge may lead to better future treatments. This review focuses on recent advances and insights of pathogens and related ocular diseases which can help the audience further understand the etiology and the control of these diseases.