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Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK
Published on: December 18, 2012
[Fungal keratitis: A 5-year monocentric retrospective study on Reunion Island]
G Hoarau1, M Albrieux2, T Martin-Phipps2
1Service de bactériologie-virologie-parasitologie, CHU de La Réunion, BP 350, 97448 Saint-Pierre, Réunion.
Objectives:
Fungal keratitis is rare in France, but could be a severe sight-threatening condition. Here, we aimed to describe the epidemiology of fungal keratitis in Réunion Island.
Methods:
In a retrospective study, we analyzed 13 culture-proven keratitis episodes, occurred between January 2013 and July 2017 in the ophthalmology ward of a University Hospital, Saint-Pierre. Twelve isolates were genotyped and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed.
Results:
Corneal abrasion caused by vegetable matter was the main predisposing factor. Stromal infiltration was observed in 12 patients. Six patients did not response to medical treatment, requiring surgical care, including two enucleations surgery. Fusarium solani (n = 6) and Fusarium dimerum (n = 4) were the main fungal species involved in fungal keratitis. Clinical failures were more prevalent with F. solani infections. The lowest minimal inhibitory concentrations for Fusarium sp. were observed with voriconazole and amphotericin B.
Conclusion:
In Reunion Island, the epidemiology of fungal keratitis is characterized by the predominance of Fusarium species, potentially involved in visual loss. This pattern is consistent with the epidemiology usually observed in tropical areas.
Insights
Fungal keratitis, a severe eye infection, is predominantly caused by Fusarium species in Réunion Island. Prompt diagnosis and antifungal susceptibility testing are crucial for effective treatment, especially with Fusarium solani.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal keratitis is a rare but sight-threatening eye infection.
- Its epidemiology in tropical regions like Réunion Island requires detailed characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of fungal keratitis in Réunion Island.
- To identify causative fungal species and their antifungal susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 13 culture-proven fungal keratitis cases (2013-2017).
- Genotyping of fungal isolates and antifungal susceptibility testing were performed.
Main Results:
- Vegetable matter corneal abrasion was the primary predisposing factor.
- Fusarium solani and Fusarium dimerum were the most common species.
- F. solani infections showed higher rates of clinical failure; voriconazole and amphotericin B were most effective.
Conclusions:
- Fusarium species dominate fungal keratitis in Réunion Island, consistent with tropical patterns.
- These infections can lead to significant visual impairment, necessitating targeted antifungal strategies.
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