Causes and Management of Corneal Ulcer at Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State

Corneal ulcer is a sight-threatening ocular emergency that represents a major cause of corneal blindness in sub-Saharan Africa when inadequately managed. This study reviews the causes and management outcomes of corneal ulcer cases presenting at Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria. A retrospective descriptive study design will be adopted. Clinical records of all patients presenting with corneal ulcer over a three-year period from 2021 to 2023 will be reviewed. Data extracted will include age, sex, occupation, predisposing factors, causative organisms identified on corneal scraping and culture, antimicrobial treatment prescribed, surgical interventions performed, and final visual outcome at discharge. Data will be summarised using frequency tables and descriptive statistics. Prior Nigerian studies indicate that infectious corneal ulcer in tropical settings is predominantly bacterial in aetiology, with trauma, particularly from plant material, being the most common precipitating factor. Traditional eye remedy application frequently precedes hospital presentation and worsens outcomes. This study provides Imo State-specific data to guide clinical management protocols and strengthen laboratory microbiology support for ophthalmic samples at FMC Owerri. Recommendations will highlight the need for patient education regarding traditional eye remedy dangers, prompt reporting of ocular injuries, and adequate provision of topical antimicrobial agents in ophthalmology clinics. Reducing corneal blindness from ulceration requires coordinated clinical, public health, and community education approaches across South East Nigeria. Keywords: corneal ulcer, corneal blindness, microbiology, Owerri, Imo State