The Case for Fungal Keratitis to Be Accepted as a Neglected Tropical Disease

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Fungal keratitis is a significant cause of preventable blindness, particularly affecting young individuals.
• An estimated 1 to 1.48 million eyes are affected annually, with 8-11% requiring enucleation.
• Suboptimal diagnosis and treatment in low-resource settings exacerbate poor visual outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the global burden of fungal keratitis.
• To underscore the need for updated diagnostic and management guidelines.
• To advocate for classifying fungal keratitis as a neglected tropical disease.

Main Methods:

• Review of current epidemiological data on fungal keratitis.
• Analysis of diagnostic and treatment challenges, especially in resource-limited areas.
• Argument for policy change regarding disease classification and resource allocation.

Main Results:

• Fungal keratitis presents a substantial public health challenge with high rates of blindness and eye loss.
• Current diagnostic and treatment protocols are often inadequate, leading to severe consequences.
• Lack of comprehensive guidelines contributes to delayed or incorrect management.

Conclusions:

• Fungal keratitis requires greater global attention and resources.
• Inclusion as a neglected tropical disease would drive awareness, improve diagnostics, and ensure access to affordable antifungals.
• Enhanced strategies are crucial to prevent blindness from fungal eye infections.