The epidemiological features and laboratory diagnosis of keratomycosis

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Aims & objective: To report the epidemiological features and laboratory diagnosis of 100 cases of fungal keratitis diagnosed at Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute, Bangalore. Methods: A total of 100 patients with suspected fungal corneal ulcer satisfying the inclusion criteria were studied at Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute, Bangalore during the period December 2009 to February 2011. Socio-demographic data, risk factors, seasonal variation and laboratory findings were studied. Results: Males (64) were affected significantly more than females (36). Of 100 patients, 78 were in the affected age group (20-50yrs). Ocular trauma was seen in 34 patients. There was a higher incidence of fungal keratitis during the monsoon and winter than summer. KOH, CFW and Gram stain revealed fungus in 46,51and17 patients respectively. Sensitivity of CFW was high (94.6%) followed by KOH (82.05%) and Gram stain (28.21%) respectively. Fusarium (42.1%), Aspergillus spp (28.93%) were predominantly isolated. Conclusion: keratomycosis is predominant in young adults with trauma as the major predisposing factor. Direct microscopy with CFW was more sensitive in detecting fungal elements. A simple and rapid Calcofluor White smear examination of corneal scraping early during the disease result in significant progress of the disease in initiating early and specific therapy.