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Acanthamoeba keratitis is an eye infection caused by the Acanthamoeba protozoan, which primarily affects the cornea. The infection typically presents as corneal ulcers, which are localized areas of inflammation and tissue loss in the corneal epithelium and potentially deeper layers.

Corneal ulcers associated with Acanthamoeba infections usually manifest with significant discomfort, redness, and visual disturbance. Characteristically, these ulcers can be extremely painful and may lead to complications such as scarring or even corneal perforation if not treated promptly. The risk factors for developing Acanthamoeba keratitis include contact lens wear, particularly with improper care or exposure to certain water sources like swimming pools or hot tubs.

Other manifestations such as corneal scarring, corneal edema, or corneal neovascularization can occur as secondary effects or complications of the ulcerative process but are not the primary manifestation of the initial infection. Therefore, corneal ulcers are the hallmark of Acanthamoeba infection in the cornea.