[Ocular manifestations and management of Fusarium and Sarocladium infections]

Since 2017, the nomenclature of Fusarium, Acremonium and Sarocladium species have changed, as these morphologically homogeneous, but phylogenetically heterogeneous species and species complexes may be differentiated using MALDI-TOF MS examination, analyzing nucleotic sequences. This resulted in taxonomical changes. We summarize the clinical course, diagnostic and therapeutic options of keratitis caused by Fusarium and Sarocladium. The challenge of Fusarium and Sarocladium keratitis management for an ophthalmologist lies in delayed diagnosis and therapy, fulminant progression and penetration of the Descemet's membrane, restricted availability, poor penetration of antifungal agents and therapy resistance. The diagnosis is based on the clinical history of corneal trauma or contact lens wear, PCR and MALDI-TOF MS, confocal microscopic examination, microbiological culture and light-microscopic analysis of corneal scrapings. As primary conservative treatment, 5% natamycin eye drops have to be used and with results of an antimycogram, topical 1% voriconazole or 0.15-0.25% amphotericin B, in some cases 0.02% polyhexamethylene-biguanide (PHMB) may be applied. Fusarium keratitis may benefit from additional 2 × 200 mg oral voriconazole treatment, daily. In therapy resistant cases, early, large diameter penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) has to be performed, with complete removal of the infected area. With late diagnosis, delayed specific treatment and surgery, mycotic hyphae may penetrate the Descemet's membrane, leading to the loss of vision and enucleation in about every fourth patient. In our paper, we also present the heterogeneous clinical history of five Fusarium and Sarocladium keratitis cases. Orv Hetil. 2019; 160(1): 2-11.