Mycotic keratitis: a study in coastal Karnataka

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Fungal keratitis is a significant cause of corneal ulcers, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Identifying the causative fungal agents is crucial for effective treatment and preventing vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and types of fungal pathogens causing corneal ulcers.
• To identify associated bacterial co-infections and demographic factors in mycotic keratitis cases.

Main Methods:

• Microbiological analysis of corneal scrapings from 295 patients with corneal ulcers.
• Identification of fungal and bacterial species using standard laboratory techniques.
• Correlation of findings with patient demographics and clinical history.

Main Results:

• Fungi were isolated in 67 (22.7%) of the 295 cases.
• Aspergillus and Candida species were the most frequently isolated fungi.
• Allescheria boydii, a rare cause, was identified in 3 cases without prior eye injury or other infections.
• Mycotic keratitis showed a higher incidence in females.
• Bacterial co-infection, predominantly Staphylococcus, was present in 46.27% of fungal keratitis cases.

Conclusions:

• Fungal keratitis is a notable complication of corneal ulcers, with Aspergillus and Candida being primary culprits.
• The identification of Allescheria boydii highlights the importance of considering diverse fungal agents in corneal infections.
• Bacterial co-infections are common in fungal keratitis, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic approaches.