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[MICROSPORIDIUM KERATITIS: A CASE SERIES]
Asaf Shemer1, Iliya Simantov2, Adi Einan Lifshitz1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Shamir Medical Center (formerly Assaf-Harofeh), Tzrifin, Israel, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Introduction:
Microsporidia is a phylum of intracellular parasites that secrete spores and stay in water sources. These parasites can cause infection in humans by invading the digestive system, the urinary system, the muscular system and the eye. Recently, the Israeli Ministry of Health announced that dozens of people in Israel were suspected of being infected with microsporidial keratitis after bathing in the waters of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). Here we present a brief overview of this microsporidial keratitis as well as three case presentations.
Insights
Microsporidia parasites can cause keratitis, an eye infection, after exposure in water sources. This overview details microsporidial keratitis and presents three patient cases from Israel.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Microsporidia are intracellular parasites found in water.
- They can infect various human systems, including the eye, causing keratitis.
- Recent outbreaks of microsporidial keratitis have been reported in Israel.
Observation:
- Dozens of suspected cases of microsporidial keratitis emerged following recreational water exposure.
- The Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) was identified as a potential source of infection.
- This study provides an overview of the condition and presents three case studies.
Findings:
- Microsporidial keratitis is a significant concern for public health, particularly after water-related activities.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing ocular infections caused by Microsporidia.
- Case presentations offer insights into the clinical presentation and management of the disease.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of water safety and public health surveillance for waterborne pathogens.
- Underscores the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals regarding microsporidial infections.
- Informs potential prevention strategies and clinical management guidelines for microsporidial keratitis.
