Final answer:
Superficial punctate keratitis can be caused by bacterial agents like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the parasitic Acanthamoeba, and the viral herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). Proper hygiene with contact lenses is critical for prevention, and treatments vary from antibiotics to antivirals, depending on the infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Superficial punctate keratitis has several potential causes, including bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections. One of the common bacterial causes is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which often affects contact lens wearers due to its ability to adhere to lens surfaces. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a challenging parasitic eye infection that arises mostly from improper disinfection of contact lenses or swimming with contact lenses on. Virally, herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) can lead to herpes keratitis, characterized by eye irritation, tears, and sensitivity to light which can progress to deeper corneal lesions and potential blindness if not treated promptly with antiviral medications.
To prevent these conditions, proper contact lens hygiene is crucial, including adequate disinfection and avoiding wearing lenses in water or overnight. For confirmed infections, treatments can range from antibiotics and antiseptics to antivirals, with severe cases sometimes necessitating a corneal transplant.