Fungal keratitis in and around visakhapatnam.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Corneal infection of fungal etiology is very common and represents 30% to 40% of all cases of culture positive infectious keratitis. Hence an understanding of the epidemiological features is important in rapid recognition, timely institution of therapy, optimal management and prevention of this disease entity. Objectives: To isolate the specific fungal agents causing keratitis. To determine the risk factors and other epidemiological characteristics of infectious keratitis. To evaluate the importance of direct microscopy in the isolation of etiological agents and institution of therapy. Material Methods: Corneal scrapings were collected under strict aseptic conditions from each patient. The scrapings were subjected to direct microscopy using 10% Potassium Hydroxide (10% KOH), fungal culture and identification by standard microbiological techniques. Results & Conclusions: Fungal isolates were obtained in 30 out of 100 samples. The predominant fungal isolate was Fusarium spp. (30%), followed by Aspergillus spp. (26.66%). Corneal ulcers showed a higher prevalence in the later age groups (31-70 yr), representing a total of 89.99% of the fungal isolates. Male preponderance was seen, with 70% of the fungal ulcers occurring in males. 93.33% of the ulcers occurred among the lower socio economic group and 80% in the rural areas (villages). Agricultural labourers contributed to 63.33% of the corneal ulcers, and peak incidence of corneal ulceration was seen during the monsoon season- 43.33%. History of corneal trauma (83.33%), with vegetative matter (68%), was the most common predisposing factor noted. 10% KOH mount was positive in 28 out of 30 fungal ulcers- 93.33% sensitivity.