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Updated: Aug 6, 2026

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Amikacin Protection Assay for Quantification and Visualization of Escherichia coli Cell Invasion
Published on: July 3, 2026
Amikacin-resistant atypical mycobacterial keratitis
Nisha Vilas Rahul1, Himansu Sekhar Behera2, Smruti Rekha Priyadarshini3
1Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar Campus, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|July 22, 2026
Summary
A case of atypical mycobacterial keratitis resistant to amikacin was successfully treated with gentamicin. This highlights gentamicin as a viable alternative when amikacin therapy fails for this eye infection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Atypical mycobacterial keratitis is a serious eye infection.
- Amikacin is a common treatment, but resistance can occur.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a novel case of amikacin-resistant atypical mycobacterial keratitis.
- To evaluate gentamicin as an alternative treatment.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation and microbiological diagnosis of atypical mycobacterial keratitis.
- In vitro antibiotic sensitivity testing.
- Treatment with fortified gentamicin eye drops.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with a corneal ulcer and was initially treated with amikacin sulfate.
- Microbiological tests revealed atypical mycobacteria resistant to amikacin.
- The patient showed a positive response to fortified gentamicin eye drops.
Conclusions:
- Gentamicin can be an effective alternative treatment for atypical mycobacterial keratitis when amikacin resistance is present.
- Broader antibiotic sensitivity testing is crucial for guiding treatment in resistant cases.
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