Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026
Combination of Microstereolithography and Electrospinning to Produce Membranes Equipped with Niches for Corneal Regeneration
Published on: September 12, 2014
Fungal Keratitis Following Application of Dehydrated Amniotic Membrane (Omnigen) With (OmniLenz) Bandage Contact Lens
Bayan Ali Alsaif1,2, Albaraa T Alfaraidi3, Rawan Alshabeeb1
1Anterior Segment Division, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, kkesh.med.sa.
Background:
Amniotic membrane is a common treatment option for several corneal and conjunctival conditions. There are several methods for preserving amniotic membrane, and each involves some compromise of the tissue integrity. Dehydrated amniotic membrane has been used for several indications, including microbial infections, aniridia, chemical burns, and limbal stem cell deficiency, as in Steven-Johnson syndrome. We report a case of fungal keratitis following the application of a sutureless dehydrated amniotic membrane using specialized bandage contact lens, OmnioLenz (NuVision Biotherapies Ltd., United Kingdom).
Case Report:
A 34-year-old male with keratoconus who had undergone deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty presented with a recurrent epithelial defect at the graft-host junction that was not responding to conservative management. A sutureless dehydrated amniotic membrane was applied but the patient developed fungal keratitis in the central cornea. The infiltrate culture revealed Candida parapsilosis. The patient was started on antifungal and antibacterial topical eyedrops and showed favorable response to topical antimicrobial agents on follow-up.
Conclusion:
High suspicion and close observation are recommended for patients who underwent keratoplasty, especially in the presence of multiple risk factors such as dehydrated amniotic membrane transplant, to detect any signs of infection in a timely manner and thereby prevent vision-threatening complications.
Insights
Dehydrated amniotic membrane (DAM) transplants, while useful for corneal conditions, can lead to fungal infections like Candida parapsilosis keratitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Amniotic membrane transplantation is a recognized treatment for various ocular surface diseases.
- Preservation methods for amniotic membrane can impact tissue integrity.
- Dehydrated amniotic membrane (DAM) is utilized for conditions including chemical burns and stem cell deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of fungal keratitis following the application of a sutureless dehydrated amniotic membrane.
- To highlight potential complications associated with DAM use in corneal procedures.
Main Methods:
- A 34-year-old male with a history of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus presented with a recalcitrant epithelial defect.
- A sutureless dehydrated amniotic membrane (OmnioLenz) was applied to the ocular surface.
- Corneal infiltrate cultures were obtained to identify causative organisms.
Main Results:
- The patient developed fungal keratitis with *Candida parapsilosis* identified in the corneal infiltrate.
- The patient responded favorably to topical antifungal and antibacterial therapy.
- The event occurred at the graft-host junction following the amniotic membrane application.
Conclusions:
- Patients undergoing keratoplasty, particularly with risk factors like DAM transplants, require vigilant monitoring for infections.
- Early detection and management of post-transplant infections are vital to prevent severe visual impairment.
- Sutureless dehydrated amniotic membrane application may be associated with an increased risk of fungal keratitis in susceptible patients.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:22Microbiome of the Eye
01:15Antifungal Agents