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Abstract:
Transmission by microbial infection from donor to host during penetrating keratoplasty is of continuing concern to corneal transplant surgeons. Eye banks routinely use antibiotic and/or antiseptic solutions to pretreat donor eyes used for transplantation, but specific antifungal agents are not given. We report a case of Candida albicans endophthalmitis that occurred after using a donor eye found to have Candida positive cultures.
Insights
Corneal transplant infections are a risk. A case of Candida albicans endophthalmitis occurred after transplanting a donor eye with positive fungal cultures, highlighting the need for antifungal screening.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Transplantation
Background:
- Microbial transmission during penetrating keratoplasty poses a risk to corneal transplant recipients.
- Eye banks commonly use antibiotics/antiseptics for donor eye preparation, but antifungal prophylaxis is not standard.
- Fungal infections, such as Candida albicans endophthalmitis, remain a concern in corneal transplantation.
Observation:
- A case of Candida albicans endophthalmitis developed post-penetrating keratoplasty.
- The donor eye used in this case tested positive for Candida cultures prior to transplantation.
- Standard antibiotic/antiseptic pretreatment did not prevent fungal transmission.
Findings:
- Donor eye microbial status is critical for preventing post-transplant infections.
- The presence of Candida in donor cultures can lead to severe intraocular infection.
- Current donor eye decontamination protocols may not adequately address fungal pathogens.
Implications:
- Routine antifungal screening of donor corneas may be warranted to prevent endophthalmitis.
- Enhanced decontamination protocols for donor eyes should be considered to include antifungal agents.
- Surgeons and eye banks must be vigilant for fungal contamination in corneal donors to improve patient outcomes.