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Nattrassia mangiferae causing fungal keratitis
A J Kindo1, S Anita, S Kalpana
1Department of Microbiology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Porur, Chennai - 600 116, India.
Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
|April 21, 2010
Summary
A rare case of fungal keratitis caused by Nattrassia mangiferae was identified in an agricultural worker with a right eye injury. Diagnosis involved KOH mounts and fungal culture, with treatment initiated using topical itraconazole.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea, often occurring after ocular trauma.
- Nattrassia mangiferae is a coelomycetous fungus that can cause opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A 70-year-old male agriculturist presented with a history of right eye injury.
- Ocular scraping revealed narrow septate fungal hyphae on KOH mount.
- A fast-growing black mold, identified as Nattrassia mangiferae (Scytalidium synanamorph), was isolated.
Findings:
- The isolated fungus demonstrated hyphae and arthroconidia, with mature pycnidia expressing conidia.
- Microscopic examination confirmed features typical of Scytalidium dimidiatum.
- The patient received topical itraconazole and atropine treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights Nattrassia mangiferae as a potential cause of fungal keratitis, particularly in agricultural settings.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for managing fungal keratitis.
- Further research is needed to understand the full spectrum of Nattrassia mangiferae ocular infections and their outcomes.
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