In Vivo Confocal Microscopy Characterization of Candida parapsilosis Keratitis
1Clinica Oculistica (R.S., P.F., C.B., C.E.T.), Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Riabilitazione, Oftalmologia, Genetica e Scienze Materno-Infantili (DINOGMI), Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy; and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino (P.F., A.M., C.B., C.E.T.), Genova, Italy.
Eye & Contact Lens
|January 29, 2024
Summary
This case report highlights Candida parapsilosis as a cause of mycotic keratitis. Corneal confocal microscopy revealed characteristic findings in patients using therapeutic contact lenses and steroid eye drops, aiding diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mycotic keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by fungi.
- Candida parapsilosis is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- Predisposing factors include therapeutic contact lens use and topical steroid administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a clinical case of mycotic keratitis caused by Candida parapsilosis.
- To describe characteristic findings on corneal confocal microscopy for this pathogen.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and targeted therapy.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case presentation.
- Corneal confocal microscopy for pathogen identification.
- Review of predisposing factors.
Main Results:
- Characteristic corneal confocal microscopy features of Candida parapsilosis were observed in two patients.
- Both patients had a history of therapeutic contact lens use and steroid eye drop therapy.
- The findings aided in the correct identification of the pathological condition.
Conclusions:
- Corneal confocal microscopy is valuable for diagnosing mycotic keratitis caused by Candida parapsilosis.
- Therapeutic contact lenses and steroid eye drops are significant risk factors.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
