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Yeast-like microorganisms in eye infections
E Dorko1, E Pilipcinec, M Mahel
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Safárik University, 040 66 Kosice, Slovakia.
Abstract:
The proportion of yeast species involved in eye infections in 11 patients was examined. The presence of yeast organisms as causative agents of endophthalmitis was found in corneal smears (n = 4), conjunctival swabs (4), and vitreous fluid (3). Altogether 5 strains of Candida albicans, 2 strains of C. krusei and one strain each of C. guilliermondii, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis and Cryptococcus neoformans were isolated from the clinical material. The hematogenic origin of endophthalmitis was proved in 7 cases on the basis of positive blood samples and in 2 cases by the isolation of yeasts from the tip of an intravenous catheter. Endophthalmitis-supporting risk factors such as indwelling intravenous catheters, prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and chemotherapy, surgical intervention, diabetes mellitus, and malignancy were observed in the patients.
Insights
This study identified various yeast species causing eye infections in 11 patients, including Candida and Cryptococcus species. Hematogenic spread and risk factors like catheters and diabetes were key in these yeast endophthalmitis cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Ocular infections can lead to severe vision impairment.
- Yeast species are increasingly recognized as opportunistic pathogens in various infections.
- Endophthalmitis, an inflammation of the eye's interior, can have diverse etiologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spectrum of yeast species implicated in ocular infections among a cohort of 11 patients.
- To determine the sources and risk factors associated with yeast-related endophthalmitis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of clinical samples including corneal smears, conjunctival swabs, and vitreous fluid.
- Microbiological isolation and identification of yeast species.
- Blood sample analysis and catheter tip cultures to ascertain hematogenic origin.
- Review of patient medical histories for predisposing risk factors.
Main Results:
- Yeast organisms were identified as causative agents in endophthalmitis from corneal smears (4), conjunctival swabs (4), and vitreous fluid (3).
- Isolated yeast strains included Candida albicans (5), Candida krusei (2), Candida guilliermondii (1), Candida parapsilosis (1), Candida tropicalis (1), and Cryptococcus neoformans (1).
- Hematogenic origin was confirmed in 7 cases via positive blood cultures and in 2 cases by yeast isolation from intravenous catheter tips.
- Commonly observed risk factors included indwelling intravenous catheters, prolonged antibiotic/chemotherapy, surgery, diabetes mellitus, and malignancy.
Conclusions:
- This study highlights the significant role of various yeast species, particularly Candida species, in causing endophthalmitis.
- Hematogenic dissemination and pre-existing patient risk factors are crucial in the development of yeast-associated ocular infections.
- Effective management requires prompt diagnosis, identification of the causative yeast, and addressing underlying risk factors.