Purpose: To review the value of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in identifying the pathogens which cause ocular infections, thereby facilitating prompt initiation of treatment with an optimal anti-microbial regimen. Both contemporary and futuristic approaches to identifying pathogens in ocular infections are covered in this brief overview. Methods: Review of the peer reviewed literature on conventional and advanced methods as applied to the diagnosis of infectious diseases of the eye. Conclusion: NGS is a novel technology for identifying the pathogens responsible for ocular infections with the potential to improve the accuracy and speed of diagnosis and hastening the selection of the best therapy.
Keywords: Next-generation sequencing (NGS); conjunctivitis; dacryocystitis; endophthalmitis; keratitis; microbial whole-genome sequencing (MWGS); ocular infection; review article; targeted Amplicon sequencing (TAS); uveitis.