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Mycotic keratitis in children: epidemiologic and microbiologic evaluation
1Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India.
Cornea
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Mycotic keratitis in children is often caused by trauma, with Aspergillus species being the most common fungal isolate. Early laboratory diagnosis using potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet mounts is highly effective.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycotic keratitis, a fungal infection of the cornea, poses a significant threat to vision, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Understanding the epidemiology and causative agents is crucial for effective management and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, and diagnostic findings of mycotic keratitis in children.
- To identify key risk factors and prevalent fungal species associated with pediatric fungal keratitis.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 211 culture-proven pediatric mycotic keratitis cases (age < 16) over five years.
- Review of patient demographics, predisposing factors, clinical signs, and laboratory diagnostic results (Gram stain, KOH mount).
Main Results:
- Trauma, especially from vegetable matter, was the leading predisposing factor (55.3%).
- Aspergillus species were the most common fungal isolates (39.5%), followed by Fusarium and Alternaria.
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet-mount preparations demonstrated high sensitivity (90.2%) for detecting fungal elements.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric mycotic keratitis is frequently linked to ocular trauma and specific fungal pathogens.
- Prompt laboratory diagnosis, particularly with KOH mounts, is vital for timely treatment of fungal keratitis in children.