EPIDEMIOLOGY, PREDISPOSING FACTORS AND ETIOLOGY OF FUNGAL KERATITIS IN A TERTIARY EYE CARE HOSPITAL IN WESTERN INDIA

Abstract

Introduction: Mycotic keratitis is an important ophthalmologic problem especially in developing countries. Fungal infection is a fatal condition which needs early diagnosis and treatment to save the patient’s eye

Objective: The purpose of this study was to study etiology, epidemiological characteristics and common predisposing factors responsible for ocular infection.

Materials and Methods: Corneal scrapings from 100 patients of corneal ulcer with suspected fungal aetiology were subjected to direct examination by 10 per cent KOH mount, Gram stain and culture. The laboratory results along with clinical and epidemiological data were examined and analyzed.

Result: Of the 100 patients of investigated, in 24 cases fungal aetiology was identified. It was seen that ocular trauma was the most common predisposing factor which was correlating with the occupation. Aspergillus spp was the most common fungus isolated in 11 cases, followed by Fusarium spp. (5) and Curvularia spp. (3). Yeasts were also isolated 3 cases.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the major element in the diagnosis of mycotic keratitis is the clinical suspicion by the ophthalmologists and laboratory confirmation of the fungus.