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Perineural infiltrates in Pseudomonas keratitis
Scott J Robbie1, Felipe A Vega, Naing L Tint
1From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
We describe 2 cases of contact lens-related microbial keratitis caused by infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in which perineural infiltrates were observed at presentation. In both cases, examination by confocal microscopy was negative for Acanthamoeba cysts but bacterial cultures and microscopy of corneal scrapings were positive for P aeruginosa. Both cases responded rapidly to treatment with topical levofloxacin with no significant long-term sequelae. These observations indicate that perineural infiltrates may occur in Pseudomonas keratitis without underlying Acanthamoeba infection and are, therefore, not pathognomonic of Acanthamoeba infection.
Insights
Perineural infiltrates in contact lens-related keratitis can be caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, not just Acanthamoeba. Prompt treatment with levofloxacin led to rapid recovery in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Contact lens wear is a significant risk factor for microbial keratitis.
- Perineural infiltrates on presentation can suggest specific etiologies, historically Acanthamoeba.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common and potentially severe cause of bacterial keratitis.
Observation:
- Two cases of contact lens-related microbial keratitis presented with perineural infiltrates.
- Confocal microscopy was negative for Acanthamoeba cysts in both patients.
- Corneal scrapings confirmed Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection via microscopy and bacterial culture.
Findings:
- Perineural infiltrates are not exclusive to Acanthamoeba infections and can be present in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of bacterial keratitis is crucial for appropriate management.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a potential cause of keratitis with perineural infiltrates.
- This finding broadens the differential diagnosis for perineural infiltrates in microbial keratitis.
- Prompt initiation of targeted antibiotic therapy, such as topical levofloxacin, can lead to favorable outcomes.
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