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Clinical Features of Infectious Keratitis Caused by Propionibacterium Acnes

Sung A Lim1, Kyung-Sun Na, Choun-Ki Joo

  • 1Nune Eye Hospital (S.A.L.), Daegu, Korea; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science (K.-S.N.), Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science (C.-K.J.), Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea; and Catholic Institutes of Visual Science (S.A.L., K.-S.N., C.-K.J.), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.

Eye & Contact Lens
|May 21, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) can cause infectious keratitis, often presenting as small ulcers with deep infiltration. Early suspicion and prompt medical treatment are key for successful outcomes in these P. acnes infections.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a common commensal bacterium.
  • Its role in causing infectious keratitis remains unclear.
  • This study investigates P. acnes as a causative agent of infectious keratitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report cases of infectious keratitis caused by P. acnes.
  • To evaluate the clinical characteristics of P. acnes-induced infectious keratitis.
  • To assess treatment outcomes for this condition.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of infectious keratitis cases from January 2013 to April 2014.
  • Identification of non-pretreated cases positive for P. acnes.
  • Analysis of clinical features and treatment responses.

Main Results:

  • P. acnes was identified in 17.9% of positive cultures.
  • P. acnes keratitis typically presented as small ulcers with deep stromal infiltration and peripheral location.
  • Average incubation was 11 days, reepithelialization took 23.5 days.
  • All cases responded well to medical treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Infectious keratitis due to P. acnes is not rare and can mimic other Gram-positive cocci infections.
  • P. acnes should be considered in cases of small keratitis with prolonged incubation periods.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment lead to favorable outcomes.

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