Which of the following is NOT a tenet of treatment for corneal ulceration?

• A. Prevent keratomalacia
• B. Control infection
• C. Relieve pain
• D. Maintain systemic blood pressure

Answer: (D)

The central goal in treating a corneal ulcer is to protect and restore the ocular surface by tackling three things: preventing tissue destruction from infection (control infection), easing pain so the patient can blink and heal comfortably, and stopping or slowing corneal melting (keratomalacia) to preserve corneal integrity. Preventing keratomalacia is crucial because enzymatic breakdown of the corneal stroma can rapidly worsen the ulcer and lead to perforation if not addressed. Controlling infection directly limits damage from invading microbes and supports proper healing. Relieving pain helps reduce distress and reflex rubbing, which can disrupt the healing surface and worsen the ulcer. In contrast, maintaining systemic blood pressure is not a direct treatment goal for the ulcer itself; it’s important for overall patient care and stability, especially during anesthesia or surgery, but it does not constitute a targeted therapy for the corneal ulcer.