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[Light- and electron-microscopic examinations of deep keratomycosis (aspergillosis) (author's transl)]
Abstract:
Light-microscopic and ultrastructural examinations of a corneal button with deep keratomycosis revealed that keratocytes are partly injured and partly of normal structure. In the cellular reaction, macrophages especially, are found that encircle hyphae with pseudopodia or cover the apical end of the fungi. In many sections, the fungal walls are very resistant to phygocytosis, but, on the contrary, the cytoplasm is damaged earlier and more severely. The cellular reaction in the anterior chamber is massive and intensive with predominance of macrophages.
Insights
Macrophages actively combat deep keratomycosis in the cornea, engulfing fungal hyphae. While fungal walls resist phagocytosis, their cytoplasm is damaged, indicating a cellular defense mechanism against fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Deep keratomycosis is a severe fungal infection of the cornea.
- Understanding the host's cellular response is crucial for treatment.
Observation:
- Light and electron microscopy revealed corneal cells (keratocytes) showing signs of injury alongside normal structures.
- Macrophages were identified as key players in the cellular reaction, actively surrounding fungal hyphae.
Findings:
- Macrophages utilized pseudopodia to engulf fungal elements.
- Fungal cell walls demonstrated resistance to phagocytosis, but the internal cytoplasm was rapidly degraded.
- A significant and intense cellular response, dominated by macrophages, was observed in the anterior chamber.
Implications:
- This study highlights the specific cellular mechanisms involved in the host's defense against deep keratomycosis.
- The findings suggest potential therapeutic targets focusing on enhancing macrophage activity or overcoming fungal wall resistance.