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Published on: August 2, 2024
[Epidemiology and treatment of fungal keratitis]
N I Davletshina1,2, A N Samoylov1,2
1Kazan State Medical University, Kazan, Russia.
Abstract:
Infectious keratitis in most cases is caused by bacterial, viral or fungal agents, but their structure is changing. Some researchers have noted a substantial increase in fungal corneal lesions in recent decades, but important local etiological therapy remains unavailable in developing countries. While bacterial keratitis and ophthalmoherpes are controlled by widely available local etiotropic therapy, treatment of keratomycosis in the Russian Federation is carried out with off-label medicine. Lack of skills and availability of diagnostic methods and official etiotropic therapy creates unequal conditions for ophthalmology specialists in the fight against ophthalmomycosis. In part, this causes a reduced level of «myco-caution», which leads to long-term ineffective treatment using antibacterial drops, lasting suffering of patients, and results in the loss of the eye functionally and - in some cases - anatomically. Therefore, the study of fungal keratitis remains relevant. The article provides an overview of research data on current epidemiology in different regions of the world, analyzes available antifungal drugs and the prospects for development of affordable and effective treatment of fungal keratitis.
Insights
Fungal keratitis is increasing globally, with limited treatment options in many regions. This study reviews current epidemiology and available antifungal drugs to improve fungal keratitis management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Infectious keratitis is primarily caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal agents, with evolving structures.
- A notable rise in fungal corneal lesions has been observed globally in recent decades.
- Effective local etiological therapies for fungal keratitis are scarce, particularly in developing nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the growing challenge of fungal keratitis (ophthalmomycosis).
- To review current global epidemiological data on fungal keratitis.
- To analyze existing antifungal treatments and explore prospects for developing accessible and effective therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research data on fungal keratitis epidemiology worldwide.
- Analysis of currently available antifungal drugs for treating fungal keratitis.
- Exploration of future therapeutic development strategies for fungal keratitis.
Main Results:
- Fungal keratitis presents a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by limited treatment availability.
- Treatment in some regions, like the Russian Federation, relies on off-label medications.
- Inequitable access to diagnostic tools and approved therapies contributes to poor patient outcomes and potential vision loss.
Conclusions:
- The study of fungal keratitis remains highly relevant due to increasing incidence and treatment disparities.
- There is a critical need for improved diagnostic skills, accessible therapies, and increased "myco-caution" among healthcare professionals.
- Developing affordable and effective antifungal treatments is essential to combat the detrimental effects of fungal keratitis.
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