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Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis in a patient with AIDS
T W Metcalfe1, R M Doran, P L Rowlands
1Eye Department, Harrogate District Hospital.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|March 1, 1992
Summary
A patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) developed chronic eye and sinus infections from Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Treatment with Brolene eye drops successfully resolved the eye inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) can lead to opportunistic infections affecting various organ systems.
- Microsporidian infections, such as those caused by Encephalitozoon cuniculi, are increasingly recognized in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A male patient diagnosed with AIDS presented with chronic keratoconjunctivitis and chronic sinusitis.
- The symptoms were attributed to an infection with the microsporidian Encephalitozoon cuniculi.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed through electron microscopic examination of conjunctival epithelial cells and nasal tissue.
- Treatment involved topical propamidine isethionate 0.1% (Brolene) eye drops administered six times daily.
Implications:
- Prompt resolution of keratoconjunctivitis was achieved with propamidine isethionate treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of considering microsporidian infections in AIDS patients with persistent ocular and sinonasal symptoms.
- Effective topical treatment options exist for Encephalitozoon cuniculi ocular infections.