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Candida Biofilm Eye Infection: Main Aspects and Advance in Novel Agents as Potential Source of Treatment
Francesco Petrillo1, Marica Sinoca2, Antonio Maria Fea1
1Department of Medical Sciences, Eye Clinic, Turin University, 10126 Turin, Italy.
Abstract:
Fungi represent a very important cause of microbial eye infections, especially in tropical and developing countries, as they could cause sight-threating disease, such as keratitis and ocular candidiasis, resulting in irreversible vision loss. Candida species are among the most frequent microorganisms associated with fungal infection. Although Candida albicans is still the most frequently detected organism among Candida subspecies, an important increase in non-albicans species has been reported. Mycotic infections often represent an important diagnostic-clinical problem due to the difficulties in performing the diagnosis and a therapeutic problem due to the limited availability of commercial drugs and the difficult penetration of antifungals into ocular tissues. The ability to form biofilms is another feature that makes Candida a dangerous pathogen. In this review, a summary of the state-of-the-art panorama about candida ocular pathology, diagnosis, and treatment has been conducted. Moreover, we also focused on new prospective natural compounds, including nanoparticles, micelles, and nanocarriers, as promising drug delivery systems to better cure ocular fungal and biofilm-related infections. The effect of the drug combination has also been examined from the perspective of increasing efficacy and improving the course of infections caused by Candida which are difficult to fight.
Insights
Fungal eye infections, particularly keratitis and ocular candidiasis, cause vision loss. This review explores Candida ocular infections, diagnosis, treatment challenges, and novel therapies like nanocarriers and drug combinations.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal eye infections, including keratitis and ocular candidiasis, pose a significant threat to vision, especially in tropical regions.
- Candida species are common causes of fungal eye infections, with a notable rise in non-albicans species.
- Challenges in diagnosing and treating these infections include limited drug availability and poor antifungal penetration into ocular tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Candida ocular infections, covering pathology, diagnosis, and treatment.
- To explore emerging therapeutic strategies, including natural compounds and advanced drug delivery systems.
- To examine the potential of drug combinations for enhancing treatment efficacy against difficult-to-treat Candida infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on Candida ocular infections.
- Analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing fungal keratitis and candidiasis.
- Exploration of novel treatment modalities, including nanomedicine and combination therapies.
Main Results:
- Candida species present diagnostic and therapeutic hurdles in ocular infections.
- Biofilm formation by Candida complicates treatment and increases pathogenicity.
- Nanoparticles, micelles, and nanocarriers show promise as drug delivery systems for ocular fungal infections.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of Candida ocular infections requires addressing diagnostic and therapeutic limitations.
- Novel drug delivery systems and combination therapies offer potential for improved treatment outcomes.
- Further research into natural compounds and advanced formulations is crucial for combating sight-threatening fungal eye diseases.
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