Topical fluconazole for experimental candida keratitis in rabbits

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Mycology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Fungal keratitis, particularly Candida albicans infections, poses a significant threat to vision.
• Effective therapeutic options for fungal keratitis are crucial for preventing severe ocular complications.
• Triazole antifungals represent a promising class of agents for treating fungal infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of topical fluconazole in a rabbit model of Candida albicans keratitis.
• To assess the impact of epithelial debridement on fluconazole treatment outcomes.
• To determine the penetration of fluconazole into ocular tissues and fluids.

Main Methods:

• A reproducible rabbit model of Candida albicans keratitis was established.
• Animals were treated with topical fluconazole (2 mg/ml) or 0.9% NaCl (control) for 24 days.
• Treatment groups included those with and without epithelial debridement.
• Corneal tissue and aqueous humor were analyzed for drug penetration and fungal presence.

Main Results:

• Fluconazole treatment significantly reduced hypopyon, descemetocele, and corneal perforation compared to controls.
• Recultivation of Candida albicans from corneal tissue was significantly lower in fluconazole-treated eyes.
• Epithelial debridement did not significantly alter treatment outcomes.
• Fluconazole demonstrated penetration into both inflamed and uninflamed cornea and aqueous humor.

Conclusions:

• Topical fluconazole is an effective treatment for experimental Candida albicans keratitis in rabbits.
• Fluconazole exhibits good ocular penetration, supporting its therapeutic potential.
• The study supports the use of fluconazole as a viable option for managing fungal keratitis.