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Updated: Feb 7, 2026
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Novel Diagnostics in Revision Arthroplasty: Implant Sonication and Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: December 3, 2017
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Diagnosing superinfection keratitis with multiplex polymerase chain reaction
Masaaki Yoshida1, Takehiro Hariya1, Shunji Yokokura1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
Summary
Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) aids in diagnosing superinfection keratitis, a challenging condition involving herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), bacteria, and fungi. This method enables prompt identification and effective treatment for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Superinfection keratitis presents atypically, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
- Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing severe corneal infections.
- Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) offers a potential solution for identifying multiple pathogens simultaneously.
Observation:
- Case series involving patients with refractory infectious keratitis.
- Corneal scrapings were analyzed using mPCR for herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), bacteria, and fungi.
- Initial diagnoses were complicated by atypical presentations and treatment failures.
Findings:
- mPCR successfully identified co-infections with HSV-1, bacteria, and fungi in complex keratitis cases.
- Retrospective analysis revealed HSV-1 presence in a case initially diagnosed with bacterial keratitis.
- The technique demonstrated utility in diagnosing superinfections involving multiple microbial agents.
Implications:
- mPCR facilitates the prompt diagnosis of superinfection keratitis, improving treatment strategies.
- This molecular diagnostic approach can help differentiate between various pathogens causing corneal ulcers.
- Early and accurate pathogen identification via mPCR is essential for preventing vision loss in patients with severe keratitis.
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