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Full-Field Optical Coherence Microscopy for Histology-Like Analysis of Stromal Features in Corneal Grafts
Published on: October 21, 2022
Candida parapsilosis corneal graft infection from a single eye center: Histopathologic report of 2 cases
Hind M Alkatan1, Azza Maktabi2, Mosa Al-Harby3
1Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Fungal keratitis accounts for 6-53% of all cases of ulcerative keratitis in variable studies. The majority of cases are due to septate fungi. The abnormal cornea in cases of dry eye syndrome, chronic ulceration, erythema multiform and possibly HIV infection is infected more commonly with Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Candida parapsilosis affects neonates and intensive care unit (ICU) patients and it has been recently found with increasing frequency. In a previous study on mycotic keratitis in our tertiary eye hospital, filamentous fungi were more commonly isolated than yeasts. We are presenting 2 successive cases of corneal graft infection by Candida parapsilosis referred to us from another eye center to attract the attention of ophthalmologists and health workers to such an infection.
Insights
Fungal keratitis is a significant cause of ulcerative keratitis. This study highlights two cases of corneal graft infections by Candida parapsilosis, emphasizing its increasing importance in eye infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal keratitis is a major cause of ulcerative keratitis, with varying prevalence (6-53%).
- Septate fungi are the most common culprits, while Candida species, particularly Candida albicans, frequently infect compromised corneas (e.g., dry eye, HIV).
- Candida parapsilosis is increasingly identified, especially in neonates and intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two consecutive cases of corneal graft infection caused by Candida parapsilosis.
- To raise awareness among ophthalmologists and healthcare professionals about this specific fungal infection.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation of two patients with corneal graft infections.
- Review of clinical data and microbiological findings for each case.
Main Results:
- Two successive cases of corneal graft infection by Candida parapsilosis were identified.
- These cases were referred from another eye center, indicating potential diagnostic or management challenges.
Conclusions:
- Candida parapsilosis can cause serious corneal graft infections.
- Increased vigilance and awareness are necessary for ophthalmologists and health workers to recognize and manage such infections effectively.
