[Fungal keratitis in Germany : Diagnostics, conservative and microsurgical treatment]

Berthold Seitz1, Y Abu Dail2, T Berger2

  • 1Klinik für Augenheilkunde und Hochschulambulanz, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Head of IOFF Fellowships, Kirrberger Str. 100, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. berthold.seitz@uks.eu.

Die Ophthalmologie
|July 24, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Fungal keratitis, a serious eye condition, is increasingly diagnosed, often mimicking other infections. Early detection and advanced treatments, including emergency keratoplasty, are crucial for preserving vision.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Fungal keratitis is a rare but severe ocular condition with potential for vision loss.
  • Increasing incidence observed globally, potentially linked to soft contact lens use and climate change.
  • Often misdiagnosed initially, similar to acanthamoeba keratitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of clinical signs and symptoms of fungal keratitis (keratomycosis).
  • To present recent advancements in diagnostics and treatment of fungal keratitis.
  • To detail indications, techniques, and postoperative care for emergency keratoplasty in fungal keratitis.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical signs and symptoms.
  • Analysis of current diagnostic methods.
  • Evaluation of pharmacological and microsurgical treatment strategies.
  • Focus on emergency keratoplasty (à chaud) indications and procedures.

Main Results:

  • Fungal keratitis presents characteristic clinical signs and symptoms.
  • Advanced diagnostics improve early and accurate identification.
  • Multimodal treatment including antifungal drugs and surgery is essential.
  • Emergency keratoplasty is a key intervention for severe cases.

Conclusions:

  • Fungal keratitis requires prompt diagnosis and management to prevent vision loss.
  • Current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies offer improved outcomes.
  • Emergency keratoplasty is a vital microsurgical option for sight-threatening fungal keratitis.

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