Mycotic Infections of the Eye

Abstract

Fungal infections of the eye are an important cause of significant visual loss and blindness in some regions of the world, especially developing countries. Ocular mycoses remain a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the ophthalmologist. Corneal infection is the most frequent presentation, but the orbit, eyelids, lacrimal apparatus, conjunctiva, sclera and internal structures of the eye can also be affected. Candida spp., Fusarium spp. and Aspergillus spp. are the most frequently isolated organisms in fungal keratitis and in endophthalmitis. The difficulties posed by ocular mycoses are mainly related to establishing the clinical diagnosis, isolation of the fungal pathogen and effective local treatment, particularly in infections of the cornea. The critical issue in diagnosing fungal infection of the eye is microbiological identification of the etiologic agent in clinical samples. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment allow serious complications, including blindness, to be avoided. Local, systemic and even surgical treatment is applied in the therapy.

Topical Eugenol Successfully Treats Experimental <b><i>Candida albicans</i></b>-Induced Keratitis

“…These two issues could be examined in future studies. In addition, and as mentioned in the Introduction, Aspergillus spp., are common among patients with fungal keratitis [1]. We only used C. albi cans in our clinical model of keratitis.…”

“…Trauma associated with contamination by vegetative material, contact lens use, and longterm corticosteroid therapy are common risk factors. Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp., and Fusarium solani are the most frequently isolated pathogens among patients with fungal keratitis [1].…”

Candida Species From Eye Infections: Drug Susceptibility, Virulence Factors, and Molecular Characterization

“…The cornea seems to be more susceptible to fungal infections compared with other parts of the eye in some regions of the world where fungal infections are common. 1,2 The prevalence of fungal keratitis in India varies from 7.3% to 44.8%. 3 In tropical parts of the world, filamentous fungi are the predominant causes of fungal keratitis and occur mostly following trauma.…”

Successful treatment of bilateral endogenous Fusarium solani endophthalmitis in a patient with acute lymphocytic leukaemia

“…Fusarium endophthalmitis has been reported after eye injury, ophthalmological procedures and use of contaminated cleansing solutions in patient who wear contact lenses . In neutropenic patients, Fusarium may spread through a (endogenous) haematogenous route causing chorioretinitis and endophthalmitis .…”

“…9,12,13 Fusarium endophthalmitis has been reported after eye injury, ophthalmological procedures and use of contaminated cleansing solutions in patient who wear contact lenses. 14 In neutropenic patients, Fusarium may spread through a (endogenous) haematogenous route causing chorioretinitis and endophthalmitis. 15 When the infection develops via haematogenous spread, prolonged systemic [15][16][17][18][19] and intravitreal antifungal therapy with or without vitrectomy, and/or enucleation is required to control the infection and reduce the risk of CNS invasion.…”