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Post-traumatic corneal mucormycosis caused by Absidia corymbifera
D H Marshall1, S Brownstein, W B Jackson
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa General Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1997
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of mycotic keratitis caused by Absidia corymbifera in a healthy farmer. The study highlights an unusual presentation of mucormycosis, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mycotic keratitis is an infection of the cornea by fungi.
- Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- Absidia corymbifera is a fungus belonging to the order Mucorales.
Observation:
- A healthy 37-year-old farmer sustained a corneal abrasion from a galvanized nail.
- Rapidly progressive corneal infiltrate developed, leading to vision loss.
- Infection spread despite treatment with antibiotics and antifungals.
Findings:
- Corneal cultures confirmed infection with Absidia corymbifera.
- Fungal elements were identified using various microscopy techniques.
- The patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty and lamellar sclerectomy.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of keratitis caused by Absidia species.
- It represents an unusual manifestation of mucormycosis in an immunocompetent host.
- Highlights the importance of considering rare fungal pathogens in corneal infections.