Fungal keratitis

Fungal keratitis
Synonyms	Mycotic keratitis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Eye pain, redness of the eye, blurred vision, photophobia, tearing, discharge
Complications	Corneal scarring, vision loss, corneal perforation
Onset	Rapid, usually within a few days of exposure
Duration	Can be prolonged if not treated
Types	N/A
Causes	Fungal infection of the cornea
Risks	Contact lens use, eye injury, immunocompromised state, agricultural work
Diagnosis	Corneal scraping and culture, PCR testing
Differential diagnosis	Bacterial keratitis, viral keratitis, acanthamoeba keratitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antifungal medication such as natamycin, amphotericin B, or voriconazole
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable; better with early treatment
Frequency	More common in tropical and subtropical regions
Deaths	N/A

Fungal keratitis is a serious infection of the cornea that can result in severe visual impairment. It is caused by various types of fungi, including Fusarium species and Aspergillus species.

Causes

Fungal keratitis is most commonly caused by the Fusarium species of fungi, but it can also be caused by the Aspergillus species and other types of fungi. These fungi are often found in the environment, particularly in soil and decaying organic matter.

Symptoms

The symptoms of fungal keratitis can vary, but they often include eye pain, blurred vision, redness of the eye, sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing or discharge. In some cases, a white or gray patch may be visible on the cornea.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of fungal keratitis typically involves a thorough examination of the eye, including a slit lamp examination. In some cases, a sample of tissue may be taken from the cornea for laboratory testing.

Treatment

Treatment for fungal keratitis usually involves the use of antifungal medications, which may be applied as eye drops or given orally. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the infected portion of the cornea.

Prevention

Prevention of fungal keratitis primarily involves good eye hygiene and proper care of contact lenses, if used. It is also important to seek prompt medical attention for any eye injuries, particularly those involving plant material or soil.

See also

• Cornea
• Fusarium
• Aspergillus
• Eye infection
• Slit lamp examination