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Pseudomonas cepacia keratitis
Abstract:
Pseudomonas cepacia has recently become recognized as a virulent pathogen responsible for nosocomial infections in hosts with altered immunity. It has been implicated in endophthalmitis and conjunctivitis, and is resistant to conventional antipseudomonal therapy. No cases of P. cepacia keratitis have been reported in the literature. We report such a case in association with topical steroid and contact lens use following penetrating keratoplasty. In addition, we developed an experimental model of P. cepacia keratitis in the rabbit. P. cepacia should be considered as a cause of infectious keratitis especially in nosocomial infections in immunocompromised corneas.
Insights
Pseudomonas cepacia causes serious eye infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals using contact lenses after surgery. This bacterium is resistant to standard treatments, necessitating increased awareness and diagnostic consideration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pseudomonas cepacia is an emerging opportunistic pathogen causing severe nosocomial infections.
- This bacterium exhibits resistance to common antipseudomonal antibiotics.
- P. cepacia has been linked to endophthalmitis and conjunctivitis, but not previously keratitis.
Observation:
- A case of Pseudomonas cepacia keratitis is reported in a patient using topical steroids and contact lenses post-penetrating keratoplasty.
- An experimental rabbit model of P. cepacia keratitis was successfully developed to study the infection.
Findings:
- This study details the first reported case of P. cepacia keratitis.
- The experimental model validates P. cepacia as a causative agent of infectious keratitis.
Implications:
- P. cepacia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of infectious keratitis, especially in immunocompromised patients and those with a history of contact lens wear or ocular surgery.
- Increased clinical vigilance is required for this resistant pathogen in hospital-acquired infections affecting the cornea.