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Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK
Published on: December 18, 2012
Recurrent fungal keratitis and endophthalmitis
1Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, USA.
Cornea
|August 6, 2000
Summary
Aggressive treatment combining surgery and antifungals successfully managed recurrent fungal sclerokeratitis and endophthalmitis. This approach restored excellent vision, highlighting the importance of timely intervention for severe eye infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal sclerokeratitis and endophthalmitis are severe ocular infections, often resulting from trauma.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent vision loss.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male presented with a 6-month history of left eye irritation post-organic matter injury.
- Initial treatment with steroids for reactive sclerokeratitis failed; Acremonium species fungal infection was identified.
- The infection progressed to endophthalmitis despite topical and systemic antifungal therapy.
Findings:
- Two therapeutic penetrating keratoplasties (PKs) with iridectomy and intraocular amphotericin B were required for fungal eradication.
- Visual acuity was restored to 20/25-3 with correction 9 months post-presentation.
- No recurrence of fungal infection was observed after the second PK.
Implications:
- Aggressive combined surgical and medical therapy can achieve successful outcomes in recurrent fungal sclerokeratitis and endophthalmitis.
- Timely and comprehensive intervention is vital for managing potentially devastating fungal eye infections.
- Understanding recurrence factors is important for optimizing treatment strategies.
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