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Human infectious corneal ulcer caused by Pythium insidiosum
R Virgile1, H D Perry, B Pardanani
1Division of Ophthalmology, Nassau County Medical Center, East Meadow, New York 11554.
Abstract:
Pythium insidiosum is a fungus-like organism known to infect a variety of animals. In humans, the few known cases involving Pythium have included arterial infections and cellulitis. We present what we believe to be the first case of P. insidiosum recovered from a human corneal ulcer. The organism is difficult to isolate, causing delays in diagnosis. It is also resistant to the usual antifungal medications, making surgical excision the treatment of choice.
Insights
Pythium insidiosum, a fungus-like organism, was identified in a human corneal ulcer, marking a first. This difficult-to-diagnose infection resists antifungal drugs, necessitating surgical removal.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pythium insidiosum is a fungus-like pathogen.
- It commonly infects animals but rarely humans.
- Human infections typically involve arterial or skin tissues.