Keratomycosis in corneal sepsis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Corneal ulceration is a significant cause of visual impairment globally.
• Fungal keratitis is a serious form of corneal infection, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Identifying causative fungal species and risk factors is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of fungal organisms in cases of corneal ulceration.
• To identify the most common fungal species responsible for these infections.
• To determine the role of trauma and steroid use as risk factors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 510 cases diagnosed with corneal ulceration.
• Microbiological examination to identify fungal presence.
• Correlation of findings with patient history, including trauma and medication use.

Main Results:

• Fungal organisms were identified in 87 (17.5%) of the cases.
• Aspergillus species were the most frequently isolated fungi.
• Mucor species accounted for 18.1% of fungal isolates, a higher proportion than previously reported.
• History of ocular trauma, especially with vegetative matter, and topical steroid application were noted as significant risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Fungal infections represent a substantial proportion of corneal ulcer cases.
• The prevalence of Mucor species may be increasing.
• Ocular trauma and steroid use are critical risk factors necessitating careful management and prevention strategies for fungal keratitis.