Neurotrophic Keratitis

Living with Neurotrophic Keratitis 

Neurotrophic Keratitis (NK) is a rare degenerative eye disease that occurs when damage to the  corneal nerves reduces or eliminates sensation in the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.  Without normal nerve function, the cornea has difficulty healing after injury, increasing the risk  of persistent damage and vision loss. 

People living with neurotrophic keratitis may experience blurred vision, redness, dryness, light  sensitivity, or persistent sores (ulcers) on the cornea. Because corneal sensation is reduced, some  individuals may have surprisingly few symptoms despite significant damage to the eye. If left  untreated, the condition can lead to corneal scarring, infection, or permanent vision loss. While  treatments such as preservative-free artificial tears, therapeutic contact lenses, biologic eye  drops, or surgery may help manage the condition, some people continue to experience persistent  or recurring corneal damage despite ongoing care.

How Clinical Research Advances Treatment 

Researchers are studying investigational medications—including regenerative therapies, biologic  treatments, novel eye drops, and other innovative approaches—to determine whether they may  help promote corneal healing, restore the health of the eye’s surface, preserve vision, and better  manage neurotrophic keratitis. These studies also help researchers better understand the long term safety and effectiveness of potential new treatment options for people living with NK. 

Study Costs & Compensation 

If you qualify for a clinical research study, study-related care, study medication, and other  study-related procedures are typically provided at no cost. You may also be reimbursed or  compensated for time and travel. 

Eligibility & Enrollment Process 

Who May Be Eligible 

Depending on the study, eligibility may be based on factors such as: 

• Having a diagnosis of Neurotrophic Keratitis (NK). 
• Be male or female adults (18+) for most available studies. 

What Happens Next 

Complete our online interest form or contact our research team to learn more about available  clinical research opportunities. 

A member of our recruitment team may contact you to discuss your medical history, current  symptoms, previous treatments, and answer any questions you have about clinical research. 

If there appears to be a study that may be appropriate, we’ll explain the study in more detail,  review the informed consent process, and answer your questions before you decide whether  participation is right for you. 

If you choose to move forward, additional medical evaluations may be completed to determine  whether you meet the eligibility requirements for a specific clinical trial.