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Arhin RE, Donkor ES, Slotved HC, Kotey FCN, Dayie NTKD. Etiologic Profile of the Pneumococcus in Ghana: A Systematic Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 2024:8368996. [PMID: 39229361 PMCID: PMC11371446 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8368996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To describe the profile of Streptococcus pneumoniae, identify research gaps, and provide in-depth insights into various aspects related to the pathogen. Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect were searched for all studies on the pneumococcus in Ghana that reported on specimen collected, population and sample size, carriage prevalence, incidence of pneumococcal diseases, age of the study population, types of test performed, serotypes identified, antimicrobial susceptibilities, or molecular analysis on the pneumococci for data extraction. Results: Overall, a total of 7954 results were obtained from the three-database search, and of this, 24 articles were selected after screening. A total of 924 isolates were accounted for by serotyping/serogrouping. The prevalence of pneumococcal carriage in Ghana ranges from 11.0% to 51.4% in the population depending on the age (≤ 24-80 years), sickle cell disease (SCD), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, or health of the study population, and penicillin (Pen)-nonsusceptible isolates ranged from 17% to 63%. The prevalence of pneumococci found as the etiologic agent of diseases among Ghanaians ranges from 3.4% for otitis media to 77.7% for meningitis. Overall, the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) (PCV-13) carriage serotypes accounted for 28.4% of the reported pneumococcal isolates. PCV-13 invasive serotypes accounted for 22.4% of the reported isolates. The non-PCV-13 carriage serotypes accounted for most (43.9%) of the reported isolates. In the pre-PCV-13 era, the nontypeable (NT) (5.5%) and other nonvaccine types (NVTs) (6.4%) were reported as being predominant. The non-PCV-13 serotypes accounted for 4.4% of the reported isolates in invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) cases. Multidrug resistance (MDR) ranged from 7.8% to 100%. Conclusion: Predicting the invasiveness of pneumococci using molecular typing is the way to go in the future as this will provide answers to the extent to which capsular switching is contributing to the pneumococcal disease burden in Ghana almost a decade after introducing PCV-13. Continuous monitoring of antibiotic resistance patterns at both phenotypic and genotypic levels, along with serotyping and molecular typing, should be a standard practice in the surveillance of pneumococcal disease burden in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reuben E. Arhin
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Ghana
- Department of Science Laboratory TechnologyAccra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric S. Donkor
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Ghana
| | | | - Fleischer C. N. Kotey
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Ghana
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Lazrak A, Desbois N, Bonnafous M, Ouamrane K, Merle H. Favorable outcome of Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratomycosis : a clinical case and systematic review. BMC Ophthalmol 2024; 24:332. [PMID: 39118115 PMCID: PMC11308431 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03599-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKROUD Keratitis caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae is rare and typically associated with a poor prognosis. Current literature lacks sufficient evidence on effective management of patients with this condition. CASE PRESENTATION A 74-year-old former agricultural worker presented with a red right eye, discomfort, and decreased visual acuity, progressing over three days without treatment. Examination revealed type 2 diabetes and a non-perforating, spiculated corneal abscess with a hypopyon in the right eye. Initial treatment included a triple antibiotic therapy and supportive care. Direct mycological examination identified numerous septate mycelial filaments. Antifungal treatment with natamycin and voriconazole, both topically and orally, was initiated. Cultures confirmed Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The patient showed significant improvement. Treatment continued for eight weeks, with a final visual acuity of 20/50 due to a stromal scar. CONCLUSION An extensive literature review conducted in November 2023, using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar with the keywords "lasiodiplodia" and "keratitis" yielded no previous cases of this specific condition being managed solely with the combined use of natamycin and voriconazole. This antifungal combination is commonly included in most management protocols for fungal keratitis. Factors such as the use of corticosteroids and delayed diagnosis were noted to adversely affect the prognosis. This case and this systematic review underscores the potential for non-surgical management options in severe fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Lazrak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Center of Martinique, Pierre Zobda-Quitman Hospital, BP 632, Fort de France Cedex, F-97261, France.
| | - Nicole Desbois
- Laboratory of Mycology, University Hospital Center of Martinique, Pierre Zobda-Quitman Hospital, Fort de France, France
| | - Martin Bonnafous
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Center of Martinique, Pierre Zobda-Quitman Hospital, BP 632, Fort de France Cedex, F-97261, France
| | - Katia Ouamrane
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Center of Martinique, Pierre Zobda-Quitman Hospital, BP 632, Fort de France Cedex, F-97261, France
| | - Harold Merle
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Center of Martinique, Pierre Zobda-Quitman Hospital, BP 632, Fort de France Cedex, F-97261, France
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Somerville TF, Mdala S, Zungu T, Gandiwa M, Herbert R, Everett D, Corless CE, Beare NAV, Neal T, Horsburgh MJ, Darby A, Kaye SB, Kayange PC. Microbial keratitis in Southern Malawi: a microbiological pilot study. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2024; 9:e001682. [PMID: 38653537 PMCID: PMC11043707 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2024-001682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Microbial keratitis (MK) is a significant cause of blindness in sub-Saharan Africa. We investigated the feasibility of using a novel corneal impression membrane (CIM) for obtaining and processing samples by culture, PCR and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in patients presenting with suspected MK in Malawi. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Samples were collected from patients presenting with suspected MK using a 12 mm diameter polytetrafluoroethylene CIM disc. Samples were processed using culture and PCR for Acanthamoeba, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of isolates to eight antimicrobials were measured using susceptibility strips. WGS was used to characterise Staphylococcus aureus isolates. RESULTS 71 eyes of 71 patients were included. The overall CIM isolation rate was 81.7% (58 positive samples from 71 participants). 69 (81.2%) of isolates were Gram-positive cocci. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus 31.8% and Streptococcus species 14.1% were the most isolated bacteria. Seven (9.9%) participants were positive for HSV-1. Fungi and Acanthamoeba were not detected. Moxifloxacin and chloramphenicol offered the best coverage for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates when susceptibility was determined using known antimicrobial first quartile concentrations and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing breakpoints, respectively. WGS identified known virulence genes associated with S. aureus keratitis. CONCLUSIONS In a resource-poor setting, a CIM can be used to safely sample the cornea in patients presenting with suspected MK, enabling identification of causative microorganisms by culture and PCR. Although the microbiological spectrum found was limited to the dry season, these preliminary results could be used to guide empirical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobi F Somerville
- Department of Eye and Vision Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Shaffi Mdala
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Thokozani Zungu
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Moira Gandiwa
- Ophthalmology Unit, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
- Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Central Region, Malawi
| | - Rose Herbert
- Department of Eye and Vision Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dean Everett
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Infection Research Unit, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Caroline E Corless
- Medical Microbiology, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Timothy Neal
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Malcolm J Horsburgh
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alistair Darby
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen B Kaye
- Department of Eye and Vision Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Petros C Kayange
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
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Knutsson KA, Rama P, Tombolini B, Di Biase C, Senni C, Buffoli F, Clementi N, Tonelli M, Carletti S, Mancini N, Ferrari G, Paganoni G, Bandello F. Beauveria bassiana Keratitis: A Case Series and Review of Literature. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7601. [PMID: 38137670 PMCID: PMC10744012 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beauveria bassiana is a filamentous fungus commonly used as an insecticide that rarely causes keratitis. METHODS Patients affected by Beauveria bassiana keratitis were retrospectively recruited at San Raffaele Hospital (Milan, Italy) between 2020 and 2022. All subjects underwent comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation, including in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and microbiologic examination of corneal scrapings. Beauveria bassiana was identified using 18S rDNA targeted PCR. RESULTS Four eyes of four patients (51 ± 8.8 years old) were evaluated. The main risk factors were soft contact lens wear (75%) and trauma with vegetative matter (50%). A superficial infiltrate was displayed in the majority of patients. Three cases (75%) showed hyphae on IVCM. All patients showed clinical improvement after topical antifungal therapy, although mostly through a combination of two antifungals (75%). One patient with a deeper infection required a systemic antifungal agent after one month of topical therapy. All cases required debridement to reduce the microbial load and enhance drug penetration. All patients experienced keratitis resolution following medical treatment (average: 3.3 months). CONCLUSIONS The identification of risk factors and the early diagnosis of Beauveria bassiana keratitis are fundamental in order to avoid its penetration in the deeper corneal stromal layers. Topical antifungal drugs, possibly accompanied by ulcer debridement, may be a successful treatment if instilled from the early phases of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Anders Knutsson
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Paolo Rama
- University Eye Clinic, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (P.R.); (C.D.B.)
| | - Beatrice Tombolini
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Carlo Di Biase
- University Eye Clinic, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (P.R.); (C.D.B.)
| | - Carlotta Senni
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Fabio Buffoli
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.B.); (N.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.B.); (N.C.); (S.C.)
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Marco Tonelli
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Silvia Carletti
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.B.); (N.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Giorgio Paganoni
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (B.T.); (C.S.); (G.F.); (G.P.); (F.B.)
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Hamerski C, Proia AD. Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratitis: A rare tropical fungal keratitis in a non-tropical climate. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2023; 32:101944. [PMID: 37915727 PMCID: PMC10616133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2023.101944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We present the clinical and histopathological findings of a geographically unique Lasiodiplodia theobromae fungal keratitis case in North Carolina. L. theobromae is a rare cause of fungal keratitis, and all but one of the 51 previously reported cases have occurred in patients living in the tropics. Observations A man in his early 50s developed L. theobromae keratitis after being struck in the left eye by a piece of debris while using a flexible-cord weed trimmer. Intracapsular lensectomy and penetrating keratoplasty were necessary when initial antimicrobial therapy was ineffective. The best-corrected visual acuity was 20/40 four years postoperatively. Conclusions and Importance Our patient is only the second example of L. theobromae keratitis in a patient living in a sub-tropical climate and the first case in the U.S.A. outside of Florida. Additional in-vitro antibiotic sensitivity testing and documentation of more clinical cases are needed to define the optimal therapy for Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin Hamerski
- Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lillington, NC, 27546, USA
| | - Alan D. Proia
- Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lillington, NC, 27546, USA
- Departments of Pathology and Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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Joshi LS, Kaiti R, Shyangbo R, Bogati B. Positive Microbiological Culture among Patients with Infective Keratitis Visiting the Cornea Unit of a Tertiary Care Centre. JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc 2023; 61:775-778. [PMID: 38289787 PMCID: PMC10579763 DOI: 10.31729/jnma.8285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Keratitis is the infection and inflammation of the cornea. Microbial keratitis is a potentially sight-threatening corneal condition. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of positive microbiological culture among patients with infective keratitis visiting the Cornea Unit of a tertiary care centre. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with a clinical diagnosis of infective keratitis presenting to the Cornea Unit of a tertiary eye care centre from 16 October 2020 to 16 March 2021 after obtaining ethical approval from the Ethical Review Board. After slit-lamp examination, corneal scrapings were performed under aseptic conditions which were subjected to Gram stain, potassium hydroxide preparation and culture for bacterial and fungal pathogens. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at a 95% Confidence Interval. Results Among 428 patients, 337 (78.73%) (73.24-84.33, 95% Confidence Interval) had a positive microbiological culture. A total of 213 (49.76%) of enrolled samples had a prior history of ocular trauma. Aspergillus species 68 (20.17%) and Streptococcus species 33 (9.79%) were the most common organisms isolated from fungal and bacterial corneal ulcers respectively. Conclusions The prevalence of positive microbiological culture among patients with infective keratitis from this study is similar to the pattern reported from similar settings. Keywords corneal ulcer; keratitis; prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raju Kaiti
- Department of Optometry, Nepal Eye Hospital, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Ranjila Shyangbo
- Department of Optometry, National Academy of Medical Sciences, Mahaboudha, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Birkha Bogati
- Department of Optometry, National Academy of Medical Sciences, Mahaboudha, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Kam KW, Rao SK, Young AL. The diagnostic dilemma of fungal keratitis. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:386-387. [PMID: 35963942 PMCID: PMC9905469 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ka Wai Kam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Alvin L Young
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Wei Z, Wang S, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Chen K, Gong L, Li G, Zheng Q, Zhang Q, He Y, Zhang Q, Chen D, Cao K, Pang J, Zhang Z, Wang L, Ou Z, Liang Q. Development and multi-center validation of machine learning model for early detection of fungal keratitis. EBioMedicine 2023; 88:104438. [PMID: 36681000 PMCID: PMC9869416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal keratitis (FK) is a leading cause of corneal blindness in developing countries due to poor clinical recognition and laboratory identification. Here, we aimed to identify the distinct clinical signature of FK and develop a diagnostic model to differentiate FK from other types of infectious keratitis. METHODS We reviewed the electronic health records (EHRs) of all patients with suspected infectious keratitis in Beijing Tongren Hospital from January 2011 to December 2021. Twelve clinical signs of slit-lamp images were assessed by Lasso regression analysis and collinear variables were excluded. Three models based on binary logistic regression, random forest classification, and decision tree classification were trained for FK diagnosis and employed for internal validation. Independent external validation of the models was performed in a cohort of 420 patients from seven different ophthalmic centers to evaluate the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity in real world. FINDINGS Three diagnostic models of FK based on binary logistic regression, random forest classification, and decision tree classification were established and internal validation were achieved with the mean AUC of 0.916, 0.920, and 0.859, respectively. The models were well-calibrated by external validation using a prospective cohort including 210 FK and 210 non-FK patients from seven eye centers across China. The diagnostic model with the binary logistic regression algorithm classified the external validation dataset with a sensitivity of 0.907 (0.774, 1.000), specificity 0.899 (0.750, 1.000), accuracy 0.905 (0.805, 1.000), and AUC 0.903 (0.808, 0.998). INTERPRETATION Our model enables rapid identification of FK, which will help ophthalmologists to establish a preliminary diagnosis and to improve the diagnostic accuracy in clinic. FUNDING The Open Research Fund from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFC2301000) and the Open Research Fund from Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beihang University &Capital Medical University (BHTR-KFJJ-202001) supported this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Wei
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Shigeng Wang
- Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Beijing, 100876, China
| | - Zhiqun Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Kexin Chen
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Lan Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Guigang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qinxiang Zheng
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Key Laboratory of Vision Loss and Restoration, Ministry of Education, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Yan He
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Di Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Kai Cao
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jinding Pang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Zijun Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Leying Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Zhonghong Ou
- Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Beijing, 100876, China
| | - Qingfeng Liang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Gupta A, Joshi G, Sengupta P. Demographical and etiological diagnosis of infective corneal ulcer in a tertiary care center in West Bengal: A cross-sectional study. KERALA JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/kjo.kjo_1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Sharma N, Bagga B, Singhal D, Nagpal R, Kate A, Saluja G, Maharana PK. Fungal keratitis: A review of clinical presentations, treatment strategies and outcomes. Ocul Surf 2021; 24:22-30. [PMID: 34915188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Infectious keratitis is a significant cause of corneal blindness worldwide. Although less prevalent in the developed world, cases of fungal keratitis account for almost half of all keratitis cases, occurring in the developing countries. These cases are one of the most refractory types of infectious keratitis and present various challenges to the treating physician such as delayed presentation, long waiting time for culture positivity, limited availability effective antifungal drugs, prolonged duration for response to therapy, a highly variable spectrum of anti-fungal drug sensitivity and a high recurrence rate following keratoplasty. The advent of rapid diagnostic tools, molecular methods, in vitro anti-fungal drug sensitivity testing, alternatives to natamycin, targeted drug delivery and most importantly the results of large randomized controlled trials have significantly improved our understanding and approach towards the diagnosis and management of cases with fungal keratitis. Overall, Aspergillus and Fusarium species are the most common causes ones of fungal keratitis. History of antecedent trauma is a significant predisposing factor. Corneal scrapings for microscopic evaluation and culture preparation, is the standard of care for establishing the diagnosis of fungal keratitis. Molecular identification of cultures offers accurate identification of fungal pathogens, especially the rare species. Natamycin is an approved first-line drug. Voriconazole is the best alternative, especially for non-fusarium cases. Management involves administration of drugs usually by a combination of various routes, the treatment regimen being individualized depending upon the response to therapy. Photodynamic therapy is a newer treatment modality, being tried for non-responsive cases, before resorting to a therapeutic graft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Sharma
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
| | - Bhupesh Bagga
- The Cornea Institute, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Ritu Nagpal
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anahita Kate
- The Cornea Institute, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Vijaywada, India
| | - Gunjan Saluja
- Strabismus, Oculoplasty & Neuro-ophthalmology Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prafulla K Maharana
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Arunga S, Mbarak T, Ebong A, Mwesigye J, Kuguminkiriza D, Mohamed-Ahmed AHA, Hoffman JJ, Leck A, Hu V, Burton M. Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2% as a treatment for recalcitrant fungal keratitis in Uganda: a pilot study. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2021; 6:e000698. [PMID: 34368461 PMCID: PMC8258663 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2020-000698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fungal keratitis is a major ophthalmic public health problem, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries. The options for treating fungal keratitis are limited. Our study aimed to describe the outcomes of using chlorhexidine 0.2% eye-drops as additional treatment in the management of patients with recalcitrant fungal keratitis. METHODS This study was nested within a large cohort study of people presenting with microbial keratitis in Uganda. We enrolled patients with recalcitrant fungal keratitis not improving with topical natamycin 5% and commenced chlorhexidine 0.2%. Follow-up was scheduled for 3 months and 1 year. The main outcome measures were healing, visual acuity and scar size at final follow-up. RESULTS Thirteen patients were followed in this substudy. The patients were aged 27-73 years (median 43 years). Filamentous fungi were identified by microscopy of corneal scrape samples in all cases. Isolated organisms included Aspergillus spp, Fusarium spp, Candida spp, Bipolaris spp and Acremoninum spp. At the final follow-up, nine patients (75%) had healed; three had vision of better than 6/18. Three patients lost their eyes due to infection. In the remaining nine cases, corneal scarring was variable ranging from 4.6 to 9.4 mm (median 6.6 mm, IQR 5.9-8.0 mm); of these five had dense scars, three had moderate scars and one had a mild scar. None of the patients demonstrated signs of chlorhexidine toxicity during the follow-up. CONCLUSION Chlorhexidine 0.2% was found to be a useful sequential adjunctive topical antifungal in cases of fungal keratitis not responding to natamycin 5%, which warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Arunga
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Tumu Mbarak
- Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Abel Ebong
- Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - James Mwesigye
- Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | | | - Jeremy John Hoffman
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Astrid Leck
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victor Hu
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- St Paul's Eye Unit, Liverpool, UK
| | - Matthew Burton
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Hoffman JJ, Burton MJ, Leck A. Mycotic Keratitis-A Global Threat from the Filamentous Fungi. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:273. [PMID: 33916767 PMCID: PMC8066744 DOI: 10.3390/jof7040273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycotic or fungal keratitis (FK) is a sight-threatening disease, caused by infection of the cornea by filamentous fungi or yeasts. In tropical, low and middle-income countries, it accounts for the majority of cases of microbial keratitis (MK). Filamentous fungi, in particular Fusarium spp., the aspergilli and dematiaceous fungi, are responsible for the greatest burden of disease. The predominant risk factor for filamentous fungal keratitis is trauma, typically with organic, plant-based material. In developed countries, contact lens wear and related products are frequently implicated as risk factors, and have been linked to global outbreaks of Fusarium keratitis in the recent past. In 2020, the incidence of FK was estimated to be over 1 million cases per year, and there is significant geographical variation; accounting for less than 1% of cases of MK in some European countries to over 80% in parts of south and south-east Asia. The proportion of MK cases is inversely correlated to distance from the equator and there is emerging evidence that the incidence of FK may be increasing. Diagnosing FK is challenging; accurate diagnosis relies on reliable microscopy and culture, aided by adjunctive tools such as in vivo confocal microscopy or PCR. Unfortunately, these facilities are infrequently available in areas most in need. Current topical antifungals are not very effective; infections can progress despite prompt treatment. Antifungal drops are often unavailable. When available, natamycin is usually first-line treatment. However, infections may progress to perforation in ~25% of cases. Future work needs to be directed at addressing these challenges and unmet needs. This review discusses the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, management and aetiology of FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J. Hoffman
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (M.J.B.); (A.L.)
- Cornea Service, Sagarmatha Choudhary Eye Hospital, Lahan 56502, Nepal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, P.O. Box 3010, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (M.J.B.); (A.L.)
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Astrid Leck
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (M.J.B.); (A.L.)
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13
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Knutsson KA, Iovieno A, Matuska S, Fontana L, Rama P. Topical Corticosteroids and Fungal Keratitis: A Review of the Literature and Case Series. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10061178. [PMID: 33799843 PMCID: PMC8001350 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10061178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of fungal keratitis is complex since signs and symptoms are subtle and ocular inflammation is minimal in the preliminary stages of infection. Initial misdiagnosis of the condition and consequent management of inflammation with corticosteroids is a frequent occurrence. Topical steroid use is considered to be a principal factor for development of fungal keratitis. In this review, we assess the studies that have reported outcomes of fungal keratitis in patients receiving steroids prior to diagnosis. We also assess the possible rebound effect present when steroids are abruptly discontinued and the clinical characteristics of three patients in this particular clinical scenario. Previous reports and the three clinical descriptions presented suggest that in fungal keratitis, discontinuing topical steroids can induce worsening of clinical signs. In these cases, we recommend to slowly taper steroids and continue or commence appropriate antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Anders Knutsson
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (P.R.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel./Fax: +39-022-6432-648
| | - Alfonso Iovieno
- Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova—IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (A.I.); (L.F.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z, Canada
| | - Stanislav Matuska
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (P.R.)
| | - Luigi Fontana
- Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova—IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (A.I.); (L.F.)
| | - Paolo Rama
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (P.R.)
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Chen CA, Hsu SL, Hsiao CH, Ma DHK, Sun CC, Yu HJ, Fang PC, Kuo MT. Comparison of fungal and bacterial keratitis between tropical and subtropical Taiwan: a prospective cohort study. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2020; 19:11. [PMID: 32228660 PMCID: PMC7104486 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-020-00353-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fungal keratitis (FK) has been shown to be a climate-sensitive disease. The differentiation between FK from bacterial keratitis (BK) was difficult. The purpose of this study was to compare the bacteriology and mycology between tropical and subtropical Taiwan and to investigate the independent risk factors for identification of fungi from bacteria. Methods Two hundred ninety-seven patients with clinical suspected microbial keratitis were prospectively enrolled. A fungal to bacteria rate (FBR), the number of fungi divided by bacteria identified, was determined to estimate the prevalence of fungi and bacteria. Clinical presentation, profiles of microorganisms, and predisposing risk factors were determined. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the independent risk factors. Results A total of 82 fungi and 143 bacteria were laboratory confirmed. The identification rate of fungus was higher in tropical Taiwan (p = 0.010). Among the fungi and bacteria confirmed, the FBR was 0.29 (22.4% vs. 77.6%) in subtropical Taiwan, and 0.70 (41.3% vs. 58.7%) in tropical Taiwan. Samples obtained in tropical area (p = 0.019), ocular trauma (p = 0.019), and plant exposure (p = 0.003) were independent risk factors for identification of fungus from bacteria. The predominant fungus isolated from corneal scraping were Fusarium solani (25%) and Trichosporon faecale (25%) in subtropical Taiwan; in tropical Taiwan was Fusarium spp. (50%). Conclusions The identification rate of fungus was higher in tropical Taiwan than subtropical Taiwan. Awareness of the local epidemiology is crucial for early diagnosis of fungal keratitis in tropical area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-An Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Shiuh-Liang Hsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsi Hsiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - David Hui-Kang Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chin Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Department of Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hun-Ju Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chiung Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| | - Ming-Tse Kuo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
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Abstract
Background:In microbial keratitis, infection of the cornea can threaten vision through permanent corneal scarring and even perforation resulting in the loss of the eye. A literature review was conducted by Karsten, Watson and Foster (2012) to determine the spectrum of microbial keratitis. Since this publication, there have been over 2600 articles published investigating the causative pathogens of microbial keratitis.Objective:To determine the current spectrum of possible pathogens implicated in microbial keratitis relative to the 2012 study.Methods:An exhaustive literature review was conducted of all the peer-reviewed articles reporting on microbial pathogens implicated in keratitis. Databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science were searched utilising their entire year limits (1950-2019).Results:Six-hundred and eighty-eight species representing 271 genera from 145 families were implicated in microbial keratitis. Fungal pathogens, though less frequent than bacteria, demonstrated the greatest diversity with 393 species from 169 genera that were found to cause microbial keratitis. There were 254 species of bacteria from 82 genera, 27 species of amoeba from 11 genera, and 14 species of virus from 9 genera, which were also identified as pathogens of microbial keratitis.Conclusion:The spectrum of pathogens implicated in microbial keratitis is extremely diverse. Bacteria were most commonly encountered and in comparison, to the review published in 2012, further 456 pathogens have been identified as causative pathogens of microbial keratitis. Therefore, the current review provides an important update on the potential spectrum of microbes, to assist clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of microbial keratitis.
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Arunga S, Kintoki GM, Mwesigye J, Ayebazibwe B, Onyango J, Bazira J, Newton R, Gichuhi S, Leck A, Macleod D, Hu VH, Burton MJ. Epidemiology of Microbial Keratitis in Uganda: A Cohort Study. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2019; 27:121-131. [PMID: 31830848 PMCID: PMC7446037 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2019.1700533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To describe the epidemiology of Microbial Keratitis (MK) in Uganda. Methods We prospectively recruited patients presenting with MK at two main eye units in
Southern Uganda between December 2016 and March 2018. We collected information on
clinical history and presentation, microbiology and 3-month outcomes. Poor vision was
defined as vision < 6/60). Results 313 individuals were enrolled. Median age was 47 years (range 18–96) and 174 (56%) were
male. Median presentation time was 17 days from onset (IQR 8–32). Trauma was reported by
29% and use of Traditional Eye Medicine by 60%. Majority presented with severe
infections (median infiltrate size 5.2 mm); 47% were blind in the affected eye (vision
< 3/60). Microbiology was available from 270 cases: 62% were fungal, 7% mixed
(bacterial and fungal), 7% bacterial and 24% no organism detected. At 3 months, 30% of
the participants were blind in the affected eye, while 9% had lost their eye from the
infection. Delayed presentation (overall p = .007) and
prior use of Traditional Eye Medicine (aOR 1.58 [95% CI 1.04–2.42], p = .033) were responsible for poor presentation. Predictors of poor vision
at 3 months were: baseline vision (aOR 2.98 [95%CI 2.12–4.19], p < .0001), infiltrate size (aOR 1.19 [95%CI 1.03–1.36], p < .020) and perforation at presentation (aOR 9.93 [95% CI
3.70–26.6], p < .0001). Conclusion The most important outcome predictor was the state of the eye at presentation,
facilitated by prior use of Traditional Eye Medicine and delayed presentation. In order
to improve outcomes, we need effective early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Arunga
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Guyguy M Kintoki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - James Mwesigye
- Department of Microbiology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - John Onyango
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Joel Bazira
- Department of Microbiology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Rob Newton
- Department of epidemiology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Stephen Gichuhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Astrid Leck
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David Macleod
- Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victor H Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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AlMahmoud T, Elhanan M, Elshamsy MH, Alshamsi HN, Abu-Zidan FM. Management of infective corneal ulcers in a high-income developing country. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e18243. [PMID: 31860971 PMCID: PMC6940151 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000018243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial keratitis is a major risk for corneal blindness worldwide. We aimed to study the clinical presentation and outcome of hospitalized patients having infective corneal ulcers.All patients who were diagnosed as microbial keratitis and were admitted to Al-Ain Hospital during the period July 2011-Dec 2016 were retrospectively studied. Patients' demography, predisposing factors, symptoms and signs at presentation, time to presentation after onset of symptoms, microbial isolates, hospital stay, and visual acuity (VA) outcome were studied.74 patients with corneal ulcers were hospitalized. 79.7% were males. The median (range) age was 44 years (1-91). 36.5% had trauma as a risk factor. The main presenting symptoms were pain (90.5%), red eye (79.7%), and decreased vision (63.5%). All patients had stromal infiltrate while 39.2% had hypopyon at presentation. The average time from the start of the symptoms to hospital presentation was 11 (1-90) days. The mean (range) hospital stay was 10.6 (1-60) days. Forty eyes were culture positive. Bacteria were identified in 27 eyes and fungus in 16. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9 eyes) and Staphylococcus epidermis (5 eyes) were the most common bacterial islolates. Aspergillus (6 eyes) was the most common fungus species. 95.2% of the bacterial isolates were susceptible to the quinolone antibiotics group. Twenty eight (51.9%) patients had a vision worse than 6/60 in the affected eye.Corneal ulcer poses a significant threat to the sight of an affected eye. Trauma was the most common risk factor for corneal ulcers. Usage of eyes personal protective equipment for high risk occupations and earlier accessibility to health care may reduce the impact of corneal ulcers in our community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahra AlMahmoud
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, United Arab Emirates University
- Department of Ophthalmology, Al-Ain Hospital, Al Jimi District, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Mohamed Elhanan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Al-Ain Hospital, Al Jimi District, Al-Ain, UAE
| | | | - Hanan N. Alshamsi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Al-Ain Hospital, Al Jimi District, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Fikri M. Abu-Zidan
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, United Arab Emirates University
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Arunga S, Kintoki GM, Gichuhi S, Onyango J, Ayebazibwe B, Newton R, Leck A, Macleod D, Hu VH, Burton MJ. Risk Factors of Microbial Keratitis in Uganda: A Case Control Study. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2019; 27:98-104. [PMID: 31640454 PMCID: PMC7446035 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2019.1682619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Microbial keratitis (MK), is a frequent cause of sight loss worldwide, particularly in low and middle-income countries. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors of MK in Uganda.Methods: Using a nested case control, we recruited healthy community controls for patients presenting with MK at the two main eye units in Southern Uganda between December 2016 and March 2018. Controls were individually matched for age, gender and village of the cases on a 1:1 ratio. We collected information on demographics, occupation, HIV and Diabetes Mellitus status. In STATA version 14.1, multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to generate odds ratios for risk factors of MK and a likelihood ratio test used to assess statistical significance of associations.Results: Two hundred and fifteen case-control pairs were enrolled. The HIV positive patients among the cases was 9% versus 1% among the controls, p = .0003. Diabetes 7% among the cases versus 1.4% among the controls, p = .012. Eye trauma was 29% versus 0% among the cases and controls. In the multivariable model adjusted for age, sex and village, HIV (OR 83.5, 95%CI 2.01-3456, p = .020), Diabetes (OR 9.38, 95% CI 1.48-59.3, p = .017) and a farming occupation (OR 2.60, 95%CI 1.21-5.57, p = .014) were associated with MK. Compared to a low socio-economic status, a middle status was less likely to be associated with MK (OR 0.29, 95%CI 0.09-0.89, p < .0001).Conclusion: MK was associated with HIV, Diabetes, being poor and farming as the main occupation. More studies are needed to explore how these factors predispose to MK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Arunga
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Guyguy M Kintoki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Stephen Gichuhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Onyango
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Rob Newton
- Department of Epidemiology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Astrid Leck
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David Macleod
- Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victor H Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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19
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Arunga S, Kintoki GM, Gichuhi S, Onyango J, Newton R, Leck A, Macleod D, Hu VH, Burton MJ. Delay Along the Care Seeking Journey of Patients with Microbial Keratitis in Uganda. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2019; 26:311-320. [PMID: 31088316 PMCID: PMC7446038 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2019.1616775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To describe the care seeking journey and causes of delay among patients with Microbial Keratitis in Uganda. Methods A prospective cohort of patients presenting with microbial keratitis at the two main eye units in Southern Uganda (2016–2018). We collected information on demographics, home address, clinical history, and presentation pathway including, order of facilities where patients went to seek care, treatment advice, cost of care, and use of Traditional Eye Medicine. Presentation time was noted. We compared “direct” presenters versus “indirect” presenters and analysed predictors of delay. Results About 313 patients were enrolled. All were self-referred. Only 19% of the patients presented directly to the eye hospital. Majority (52%) visited one facility before presenting, 19% visited two facilities, 9% visited three facilities, and 2% visited four facilities. The cost of care increased with increase in the number of facilities visited. People in a large household, further distance from the eye hospital and those who used Traditional Eye Medicine were less likely to come directly to the eye hospital. Visiting another facility prior to the eye hospital and use of Traditional Eye Medicine aOR 1.58 (95%CI 1.03–2.43), p = .038 were associated with delayed presentation to the eye hospital. Conclusion This study provided information on patient journeys to seek care. Delay was largely attributable to having visited another health facility: a referral mechanism for microbial keratitis was non-existent. There is need to explore how these health system gaps can be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Arunga
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara , Uganda
| | - Guyguy M Kintoki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara , Uganda
| | - Stephen Gichuhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nairobi , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - John Onyango
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara , Uganda
| | - Rob Newton
- Department of Ophthalmology, Uganda Virus Research Institute , Entebbe , Uganda
| | - Astrid Leck
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - David Macleod
- Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Victor H Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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20
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Estimated Burden of Serious Fungal Infections in Ghana. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5020038. [PMID: 31083531 PMCID: PMC6616901 DOI: 10.3390/jof5020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are increasingly becoming common and yet often neglected in developing countries. Information on the burden of these infections is important for improved patient outcomes. The burden of serious fungal infections in Ghana is unknown. We aimed to estimate this burden. Using local, regional, or global data and estimates of population and at-risk groups, deterministic modelling was employed to estimate national incidence or prevalence. Our study revealed that about 4% of Ghanaians suffer from serious fungal infections yearly, with over 35,000 affected by life-threatening invasive fungal infections. Incidence of cryptococcal meningitis, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, and disseminated histoplasmosis cases in AIDS was estimated at 6275, 12,610 and 724, respectively. Oral and esophageal candidiasis collectively affect 27,100 Ghanaians and 42,653 adult asthmatics are estimated to have fungal asthma. We estimate a prevalence of 12,620 cases of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA and an incidence of 1254 cases of invasive aspergillosis (IA). Estimated cases of candidemia and candida peritonitis cases were 1446 and 217, respectively. The estimated prevalence of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) and tinea capitis was 442,621 and 598,840, respectively. Mucormycosis and fungal keratitis each may affect 58 and 810 Ghanaians. These data highlight the urgent need for intensified awareness to improve diagnosis and management.
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Das S, Samantaray R, Mallick A, Sahu SK, Sharma S. Types of organisms and in-vitro susceptibility of bacterial isolates from patients with microbial keratitis: A trend analysis of 8 years. Indian J Ophthalmol 2019; 67:49-53. [PMID: 30574892 PMCID: PMC6324162 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_500_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report the distribution and trends of types of organisms and antibiotic susceptibility of the bacterial isolates obtained from patients with microbial keratitis. Methods Microbiology records of culture-positive microbial keratitis that underwent a diagnostic corneal scraping and cultures were reviewed. Fungal, bacterial, and parasitic culture results and antibiotic susceptibility profile of bacteria were analyzed and comparisons were made between two halves of the study period (2007-2010 vs. 2011-2014). Results A total of 3981 corneal scrapings were processed during the 8-year study period. Pathogen was recovered in culture in 1914 (48.1%) samples. Fungi, bacteria, and parasites constituted 38.7%, 60%, and 1.3% of the total isolates, respectively. The common fungal isolates were Aspergillus spp. (224/868, 25.8%) and Fusarium spp. (200/868, 23.0%), while common Gram-positive bacteria were Streptococcus pneumoniae (217/1125, 19.3%) and Staphylococcus aureus (185/1125, 16.4%), and common Gram-negative bacteria was Pseudomonas spp. (99/219, 45.2%). There was no significant difference in proportion of bacterial (P = 0.225) and fungal (P = 0.421) keratitis between the first half and second half of the study period. There was a significant increase in proportion of Gram-positive isolates (P = 0.015) [353/758 (46.6%) vs. 772/1482 (52.1%)] and decrease in proportion of Gram-negative organisms (P = 0.044) [88/758 (11.6%) vs. 131/1482 (8.8%)] in the recent years. In-vitro antibiotic susceptibility testing showed decrease in susceptibility to moxifloxacin for Pseudomonas spp. (P = 0.016) in recent years. Conclusion Prevalence of fungal and bacterial keratitis has remained unchanged over the years. This study shows a significant increase in Gram-positive bacterial infection and decrease in Gram-negative bacterial infection of the cornea in the recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata Das
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Aparajita Mallick
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Srikant K Sahu
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Savitri Sharma
- Jhaveri Microbiology Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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22
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Park MH, Yoo WS, Kim GN, Cho YW, Seo SW, Kim SJ. Clinical Aspects of Infectious Keratitis in Western Gyeongsangnamdo, Republic of Korea. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2019. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2019.60.8.731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Hwa Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Woong-Sun Yoo
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Gyu-Nam Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Yong-Wun Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Seong-Wook Seo
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Seong-Jae Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
- Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
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Acharya M, Farooqui JH, Jain S, Mathur U. Pearls and paradigms in Infective Keratitis. Rom J Ophthalmol 2019; 63:119-127. [PMID: 31334389 PMCID: PMC6626937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Infective Keratitis is a commonly encountered sight-threatening ocular emergency. In developing countries, it is a major cause of corneal blindness. Empirical treatment without microbiological work up often leads to treatment failure. Indiscriminate use of steroid antibiotic combination worsens the situation and makes further management challenging. The correct line of management can be potentially sight saving for both the ophthalmologist and the patient. This article on Infective keratitis has been written keeping best practices and protocols in mind. In a very simple and concise form, it focuses on the salient features of clinical presentation of infective keratitis and the stepwise approach to subsequent management in a patient. It explains in detail the way to perform corneal scraping, the importance of the same and further management based on microbiologically proven result. The management part includes indications and methods for medical as well as surgical intervention. We aimed to share our experience in the management of patients presenting with infective keratitis in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shikha Jain
- Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Umang Mathur
- Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Mahmoudi S, Masoomi A, Ahmadikia K, Tabatabaei SA, Soleimani M, Rezaie S, Ghahvechian H, Banafsheafshan A. Fungal keratitis: An overview of clinical and laboratory aspects. Mycoses 2018; 61:916-930. [PMID: 29992633 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mycotic keratitis or keratomycosis is a fungal infection with global distribution. The dominant aetiology of this disease varies based on geographical origin, socioeconomic status, and climatic condition. Generally, Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. are common in tropical and subtropical regions and Candida spp. are dominant in temperate areas. Demonstration of fungal elements in microscopic examination besides the isolation of fungi in culture is the gold standard of laboratory diagnosis. As the culture is a time-consuming procedure, other approaches such as in vivo confocal microscopy which produces real-time imaging of corneal tissue and molecular techniques have been developed to facilitate rapid diagnosis of fungal keratitis. The first choice of treatment is topical natamycin, although topical amphotericin B is the best choice for Aspergillus and Candida keratitis. Regarding the diversity of fungal aetiology and the emergence of drug resistance in some genera and species, proper identification using molecular methods and antifungal susceptibility testing could provide useful data. Furthermore, as the better efficacy of combination therapy in comparison to monotherapy is reported, in vitro determination of interactions between various drugs seem informative. This review aims to provide a general and updated view on the aetiology, risk factors, epidemiology, clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and management of fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Mahmoudi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Masoomi
- Department of Ocular Trauma and Emergency, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Ahmadikia
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Tabatabaei
- Department of Ocular Trauma and Emergency, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soleimani
- Department of Ocular Trauma and Emergency, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sassan Rezaie
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Ghahvechian
- Department of Ocular Trauma and Emergency, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Banafsheafshan
- Department of Ocular Trauma and Emergency, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Arunga S, Kwaga T, Leck A, Hu VH, Burton MJ. Bilateral Candida keratitis in an HIV patient with asymptomatic genitourinary candidiasis in Uganda. Med Mycol Case Rep 2018; 22:14-17. [PMID: 30094132 PMCID: PMC6073078 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A 35-year-old male presented with Candida keratitis in the left eye. He was HIV positive with a CD4 of 352 cells/µL. The eye quickly deteriorated, despite intensive antifungal treatment and was eviscerated. Five months later, he re-presented with Candida keratitis in his right eye. A focal source of Candida infection was suspected and a urine culture identified Candida spp, despite being asymptomatic for genitourinary candidiasis. He was subsequently treated with good outcome (max. 75 words)
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Arunga
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda.,International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Teddy Kwaga
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Astrid Leck
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victor H Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the demographics, risk factors, clinical and microbiological characteristics, and treatment outcome of post-traumatic infective keratitis. METHODS Consecutive patients with post-traumatic infective keratitis presenting to the Ophthalmology Department of a tertiary referral hospital in Singapore between March 2012 and March 2016 were prospectively identified. A standardized data collection form was used to document patient demographics, microbiological diagnosis, antibiotic sensitivity, and pretreatment and posttreatment ocular characteristics. Any contact lens-induced keratitis was excluded from the study. RESULTS In total, 26 patients were included for analysis. The mean age was 40.0 years (SD ± 19.4) and 84.6% of the patients were male. The majority of the patients (69.2%, n = 18) had sustained work-related injury in their eyes. Gram-negative organisms were predominant isolates (75.0%, n = 12) in culture-positive corneal scrapings (n = 16). Pan-sensitive Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the commonest organism isolated among the culture-positive cases (56.2%, n = 9). Three patients (18.7%) had developed fungal keratitis and Acanthamoeba was isolated in 1 patient (6.2%) with polymicrobial keratitis. Infections resolved with medical treatment in 22 eyes (84.6%) and 4 eyes (15.3%) required therapeutic corneal transplantation. CONCLUSIONS A shift of practice in post-traumatic infective keratitis should be considered in tropical countries to include Gram-negative cover. Work safety practices with vigilance in initiating treatment and education by front-line physicians such as ophthalmology and general practitioners should be reinforced.
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Sensitivity and Specificity of Laser-Scanning In Vivo Confocal Microscopy for Filamentous Fungal Keratitis: Role of Observer Experience. Am J Ophthalmol 2017; 179:81-89. [PMID: 28445703 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2017.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine sensitivity and specificity of laser-scanning in vivo confocal microscopy (LS-IVCM) for detection of filamentous fungi in patients with microbial keratitis and to evaluate the effect of observer's imaging experience on these parameters. DESIGN Retrospective reliability study. METHODS This study included 21 patients with filamentous fungal keratitis and 24 patients with bacterial keratitis (as controls). The etiology of infection was confirmed based on the response to specific therapy regardless of culture results. All patients had undergone full-thickness corneal imaging by a LS-IVCM (Heidelberg Retina Tomograph 3 with Rostock Cornea Module; Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). The images were evaluated for the presence of fungal filaments by 2 experienced observers and 2 inexperienced observers. All observers were masked to the clinical and microbiologic data. RESULTS The mean number of images obtained per eye was 917 ± 353. The average sensitivity of LS-IVCM for detecting fungal filaments was 71.4% ± 0% for the experienced observers and 42.9% ± 6.7% for the inexperienced observers. The average specificity was 89.6% ± 3.0% and 87.5% ± 17.7% for these 2 groups of observers, respectively. Although there was a good agreement between the 2 experienced observers (κ = 0.77), the inexperienced observers showed only a moderate interobserver agreement (κ = 0.51). The LS-IVCM sensitivity was higher in patients with fungal infections who had positive culture or longer duration of the disease. CONCLUSIONS Although LS-IVCM has a high specificity for diagnosing filamentous fungal keratitis, its sensitivity is moderate and highly dependent on the level of the observer's experience and training with this imaging modality.
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Farrell S, McElnea E, Moran S, Knowles S, Murphy CC. Fungal keratitis in the Republic of Ireland. Eye (Lond) 2017; 31:1427-1434. [PMID: 28524886 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2017.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeFungal keratitis is relatively rare in temperate climates with only one previous population-based study, which reported a minimum annual incidence of 0.32 per million population in the United Kingdom. We performed a nationwide study in the Republic of Ireland of cases over a 6-year period to establish the incidence, risk factors, treatment, and outcomes of fungal keratitis.Patients and methodsAll corneal scraping specimens positive for fungal species over a 6-year period were identified at the microbiology departments of the seven main ophthalmology units in the Republic of Ireland. Census data was used to establish national minimum annual incidence.ResultsForty-two eyes were treated for confirmed fungal keratitis during the 6-year period. This resulted in a minimum incidence of 1.53 cases per million population per year. Twenty-eight of 42 cases (67%) were due to filamentary fungi, with the most common species being Aspergillus. Pre-existing ocular surface disease was the most common risk factor constituting 42.9%; 26.2% underwent keratoplasty. No eyes underwent evisceration. Two eyes resulted in a level of vision of no perception of light. The mean LogMAR acuity in the remainder of cases was 0.89 with a range from -0.10 to 4.00.ConclusionThis study demonstrates a much higher minimum annual incidence than previously reported. The causative organism is highly related to risk factor. The range of visual outcomes remains broad in all subgroups. The wide range of outcomes and treatments used highlights the need for better evidence-based guidelines for fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Farrell
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - E McElnea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S Moran
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - S Knowles
- Department of Microbiology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C C Murphy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Gu HJ, Kim YJ, Lee HJ, Dong SH, Kim SW, Huh HJ, Ki CS. Invasive Fungal Sinusitis by Lasiodiplodia theobromae in an Patient with Aplastic Anemia: An Extremely Rare Case Report and Literature Review. Mycopathologia 2016; 181:901-908. [PMID: 27650099 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-016-0062-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Human Lasiodiplodia theobromae infection has not been reported frequently. We report the first case of invasive L. theobromae nasal and neck infection. A 66-year-old male visited our hospital with anemia and general weakness. He showed pancytopenia, and his bone marrow examination revealed markedly decreased hematopoietic cells. The patient was presumed to have iatrogenic aplastic anemia due to mushroom toxicity. He began treatment for multiple organ infections with broad-spectrum antibiotics and antifungal agents. During hospitalization, he complained of nasal obstruction and left neck lymph node enlargement. A mass-like lesion was observed, and a nasal mass biopsy was performed. The mass was identified as a fungal ball. He underwent surgical excision for the nasal mass and the neck lymph node. The pathologic examination indicated an invasive fungal infection, and the lymph node revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation with fungal infection. 18s rRNA sequencing revealed that the sequence shared 99 % identity with L. theobromae. The nasal mass fungus was identified by internal transcribed spacer region sequencing from pathologic paraffin sections. The obtained sequence corresponded to Lasiodiplodia or Macrophoma. The sequence corresponded to the neck discharge sequence results. Hence, the patient was diagnosed with invasive fungal sinusitis with neck lymph node involvement caused by L. theobromae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of L. theobromae infection in Korea and the first report of invasive L. theobromae fungal sinusitis in the literature. We should include more precise evaluations of additional novel fungal species as possible candidates.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Anemia, Aplastic/complications
- Ascomycota/classification
- Ascomycota/genetics
- Ascomycota/isolation & purification
- Biopsy
- DNA, Fungal/chemistry
- DNA, Fungal/genetics
- DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry
- DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/chemistry
- DNA, Ribosomal Spacer/genetics
- Histocytochemistry
- Humans
- Lymph Nodes/pathology
- Male
- Microbiological Techniques
- Microscopy
- Mycoses/diagnosis
- Mycoses/microbiology
- Mycoses/pathology
- Mycoses/surgery
- Neck/pathology
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- Republic of Korea
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sinusitis/etiology
- Sinusitis/microbiology
- Sinusitis/pathology
- Sinusitis/surgery
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Gu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, 23 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Young Jin Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, 23 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Hee Joo Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, 23 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea.
| | - Sung Hwa Dong
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Wan Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jae Huh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Seok Ki
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Anutarapongpan O, Thanathanee O, Suwan-Apichon O. Penicillium keratitis in a HIV-infected patient. BMJ Case Rep 2016; 2016:bcr-2016-216139. [PMID: 27535731 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-216139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A 36-year-old HIV-positive man presented with symptoms of redness, blurred vision and foreign body sensation in his right eye for 3 months. The slit lamp examination revealed deep stromal infiltration with a feathery margin in an otherwise minimal anterior chamber reaction. A corneal scraping was negative. Confocal microscopy demonstrated an abnormal large hyper-reflective oval shape in the corneal stroma. Corneal infiltration did not show improvement after topical, intrastromal and intracameral antifungal treatment. Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty was performed to eradicate the infection. Corneal button culture and histopathological results confirmed the diagnosis of Penicillium marneffei keratitis. No recurrent infection occurred after corneal transplantation. This appears to be the first report of P. marneffei keratitis in an HIV-infected patient. Although it is an uncommon condition, it should be one of the differential diagnoses in an HIV-infected patient presenting with keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orapin Anutarapongpan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University, Moung, Thailand
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31
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Clinical and corneal microbial profile of infectious keratitis in a high HIV prevalence setting in rural South Africa. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 35:1403-9. [PMID: 27236644 PMCID: PMC4982874 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-016-2677-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to determine the clinical and corneal microbial profile of infectious keratitis in a high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence setting in rural South Africa. Data in this cross-sectional study were collected from patients presenting with symptoms of infectious keratitis (n = 46) at the ophthalmology outpatient department of three hospitals in rural South Africa. Corneal swabs were tested for herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and 2 (HSV-2), varicella zoster virus (VZV) and adenovirus DNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and for bacteria and fungi by culture. Based on clinical history, disease characteristics and laboratory results, 29 (63 %) patients were diagnosed as viral keratitis, including 14 (48 %) viral keratitis cases complicated by bacterial superinfection, and 17 (37 %) as bacterial keratitis. VZV and HSV-1 DNA was detected in 11 (24 %) and 5 (11 %) corneal swabs, respectively. Among clinically defined viral keratitis cases, a negative viral swab was predominantly (93 %) observed in cases with subepithelial inflammation and was significantly associated with an increased duration of symptoms (p = 0.003). The majority of bacteria cultured were Gram-positive (24/35), including Staphylococcus epidermidis and S. aureus. Viral aetiology was significantly associated with a history of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (p < 0.001) and a trend was observed between viral aetiology and HIV infection (p = 0.06). Twenty-one (47 %) keratitis cases were complicated by anterior uveitis, of which 18 (86 %) were HIV-infected cases with viral keratitis. The data implicate a high prevalence of herpetic keratitis, in part complicated by bacterial superinfection and/or uveitis, in HIV-infected individuals presenting with infectious keratitis in rural South Africa.
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Stoler J, Ahmed H, Asantewa Frimpong L, Bello M. Presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in coliform-free sachet drinking water in Ghana. Food Control 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2015.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Kredics L, Narendran V, Shobana CS, Vágvölgyi C, Manikandan P. Filamentous fungal infections of the cornea: a global overview of epidemiology and drug sensitivity. Mycoses 2015; 58:243-60. [PMID: 25728367 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis is a serious suppurative, usually ulcerative corneal infection which may result in blindness or reduced vision. Epidemiological studies indicate that the occurrence of fungal keratitis is higher in warm, humid regions with agricultural economy. The most frequent filamentous fungal genera among the causal agents are Fusarium, Aspergillus and Curvularia. A more successful therapy of fungal keratitis relies on precise identification of the pathogen to the species level using molecular tools. As the sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal RNA gene cluster (rDNA) is not discriminative enough to reveal a species-level diagnosis for several filamentous fungal species highly relevant in keratitis infections, analysis of other loci is also required for an exact diagnosis. Molecular identifications may also reveal the involvement of fungal species which were not previously reported from corneal infections. The routinely applied chemotherapy of fungal keratitis is based on the topical and systemic administration of polyenes and azole compounds. Antifungal susceptibility testing of the causal agents is of special importance due to the emergence and spread of resistance. Testing the applicability of further available antifungals and screening for new, potential compounds for the therapy of fungal keratitis are of highlighted interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Kredics
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Lekhanont K, Nonpassopon M, Nimvorapun N, Santanirand P. Treatment with intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole in 2 eyes with Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratitis: case reports. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e541. [PMID: 25674759 PMCID: PMC4602755 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To report the clinical presentation and the role of intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole injection in the management of rare cases of fungal keratitis caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae.Two eyes of 2 patients with Lasiodiplodia keratitis unresponsive to topical and oral antifungal medications were included in this study. Diagnosis of Lasiodiplodia keratitis was confirmed by microbiological analysis, including culture-based (case 1 and 2) and DNA sequencing techniques (case 2 only).The first patient presented with multiple satellite lesions and one of these infiltrates spread deeply into the cornea, forming a stromal abscess. Another patient had a large full-thickness corneal infiltrates with several fungal balls in the anterior chamber, requiring a limbus-to-limbus therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty. Despite aggressive topical therapy, the stromal abscess continued to worsen in the first case and recurrent keratitis was observed postoperatively in the second case. Voriconazole 50 μg/0.1 mL was administered intracamerally and intrastromally around the fungal abscess as adjuncts to topical antimycotics in the first case. The second patient who needed therapeutic keratoplasty was treated with an intracameral injection of 50 μg/0.1 mL voriconazole at the end of surgery. Postoperatively, 100 μg/0.1 mL voriconazole was also injected intracamerally after the recurrence of infection was noted in the graft. Reinjections were given 48 hours apart in both cases. After the injections, all corneal and anterior chamber lesions were reduced in size and density and completely resolved within 4 weeks.Intrastromal and intracameral voriconazole injections may offer safe and effective treatment options for L theobromae keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaevalin Lekhanont
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (KL, MN, NN); and Department of Pathology (PS), Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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35
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Comparison of mycotic keratitis with nonmycotic keratitis: an epidemiological study. J Ophthalmol 2014; 2014:254302. [PMID: 25548657 PMCID: PMC4273596 DOI: 10.1155/2014/254302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose. This work aims to study the problems encountered with and the different epidemiological features of patients with fungal keratitis. Patients and Methods. All cases with keratitis attending the Outpatient Clinic of Ophthalmology Department at Tanta University Hospital during three years from the first of January 2011 to the end of December 2013 were selected and carefully examined and cases with mycotic keratitis were further examined and investigated. Results. From 66303 attendants during this period with different complaints, there were 361 cases (0.54%) with mycotic keratitis and 473 cases (0.71%) of nonmycotic origin. Mycotic keratitis is common between 40 and 60 years, more in farmers (64%), families with large number and large crowding index, rural than urban residence, and patients with outdoor water sources and insanitary sewage disposal. Positive fungal cultures were obtained in 84.5% and were negative in 15.5% of cases in spite of their typical clinical findings for diagnosis and their improvement with antifungal therapy. Conclusion. Mycotic keratitis is more frequent in farmers, rural areas, outdoor water supply, insanitary sewage disposal, and patients preceded with organic trauma. Atypical clinical findings were found in some cases and not all cases improved with specific antifungal therapy.
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36
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Mandour SS, Marey HM, Farahat HG. Resistant Microbial Keratitis in South Nile Delta, Egypt: Influence of Regional Risk Factors. Semin Ophthalmol 2014; 31:473-8. [PMID: 25398124 DOI: 10.3109/08820538.2014.962174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was conducted in an attempt to identify the regional, geographic, climatic, socioeconomic, and other risk factors for microbial keratitis in south Nile Delta, Egypt. METHODS This is a prospective cross-sectional study that was carried out on 340 eyes of 340 patients with microbial keratitis attending at the outpatient clinic of Ophthalmology Department of Menoufia University Hospital during a period of three years between March 2010 and March 2013. RESULTS Epidemiological factors, lines of management, and follow-up results were recorded and statistically analyzed and there were regional variations in the prevalence, risk factors, and outcome in resistant corneal ulcers. CONCLUSION Higher incidence of affections and complications has appeared in farmers, rural area residents, and illiterates which are considered the main predisposing factors for ulcer resistance. According to culture results, bacterial organisms (especially Staphylococcus aureus) were the main cause of resistant corneal ulcers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh S Mandour
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine , Shebin El Kom , Menoufia , Egypt
| | - Hatem M Marey
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine , Shebin El Kom , Menoufia , Egypt
| | - Hassan G Farahat
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine , Shebin El Kom , Menoufia , Egypt
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ElMeshad AN, Mohsen AM. Enhanced corneal permeation and antimycotic activity of itraconazole against Candida albicans via a novel nanosystem vesicle. Drug Deliv 2014; 23:2115-2123. [DOI: 10.3109/10717544.2014.942811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aliaa N. ElMeshad
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt and
| | - Amira M. Mohsen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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Das S, Sharma S, Mahapatra S, Sahu SK. Fusarium keratitis at a tertiary eye care centre in India. Int Ophthalmol 2014; 35:387-93. [PMID: 24929671 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-014-9961-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to report the clinical and microbiological profiles of Fusarium keratitis. In this single-centre, retrospective, non-comparative case series, 47 laboratory-confirmed cases of keratitis caused by Fusarium species treated at the L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar, India, between November 2006 and October 2009, were reviewed. The analysis included predisposing factors, clinical characteristics, microbiological findings, treatment and outcome. Forty-seven samples of 47 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the 47 patients was 46 ± 17 years. Twelve eyes had a history of injury. Corneal scraping could not be done in one of the cases due to large perforation. Fungal filaments were detected in corneal scraping in 41 cases, and in three cases microconidia were observed in microscopy. Fusarium solani was the most common species (44.7 %). All three cases where microconidia were present in smear were identified as F. solani in culture. The mean time to positive culture was 2.4 ± 1.5 days. Twenty-three patients underwent adjunctive surgical procedure. Visual acuity of <20/200 at presentation and final follow-up was noted in 80.9 and 51.4 % patients, respectively. One-half (23/47) of the patients had improvement in visual acuity. Fusarium keratitis may present after trauma without any satellite lesion, and the response to medical therapy is generally poor. Rapid diagnosis can be made by smear examination of corneal scrapings in a majority of the cases and confirmed by culture within 2-3 days. Presence of microconidia in smear examination may be suggestive of F. solani.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujata Das
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Patia, Bhubaneswar, 751 024, Odisha, India,
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Neoh CF, Daniell M, Chen SCA, Stewart K, Kong DCM. Clinical utility of caspofungin eye drops in fungal keratitis. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2014; 44:96-104. [PMID: 24933448 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2014.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of fungal keratitis remains challenging. To date, only the polyenes and azoles are commonly used topically in the management of fungal keratitis. Natamycin, a polyene, is the only antifungal eye drop that is commercially available; the remainder are prepared in-house and are used in an 'off-label' manner. Failure of medical treatment for fungal keratitis is common, hence there is a need for more effective topical antifungal therapy. To increase the antifungal eye drop armamentarium, it is important to investigate the utility of other classes of antifungal agents for topical use. Caspofungin, an echinocandin antifungal agent, could potentially be used to address the existing shortcomings. However, little is known about the usefulness of topically administered caspofungin. This review will briefly explore the incidence, epidemiology and antifungal treatment of fungal keratitis. It will focus primarily on evidence related to the efficacy, safety and practicality of using caspofungin eye drops in fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Fen Neoh
- Collaborative Drug Discovery Research (CDDR) Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University (Parkville Campus), 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Mark Daniell
- Corneal Unit, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH), 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, c/- RVEEH, Locked Bag 8, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
| | - Sharon C-A Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICMPR - Pathology West, Westmead Hospital, P.O. Box 533, Wentworthville, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Kay Stewart
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University (Parkville Campus), 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - David C M Kong
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University (Parkville Campus), 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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Priya R, Mythili A, Singh YRB, Sreekumar H, Manikandan P, Panneerselvam K, Shobana CS. Virulence, Speciation and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Ocular Coagualase Negative Staphylococci (CoNS). J Clin Diagn Res 2014; 8:DC33-7. [PMID: 24995181 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2014/7867.4395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coagulase negative Staphylococci (CoNS) are common inhabitants of human skin and mucous membranes. With the emergence of these organisms as prominent pathogens in patients with ocular infections, investigation has intensified in an effort to identify important virulence factors and to inform new approaches to treatment and prevention. AIM To isolate CoNS from ocular specimens; to study the possible virulence factors; speciation of coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) which were isolated from ocular complications; antibiotic susceptibility testing of ocular CoNS. MATERIALS AND METHODS The specimens were collected from the target patients who attended the Microbiology Laboratory of a tertiary care eye hospital in Coimbatore, Tamilnadu state, India. The isolates were subjected to tube and slide coagulase tests for the identification of CoNS. All the isolates were subjected to screening for lipase and protease activities. Screening for other virulence factors viz., slime production on Congo red agar medium and haemagglutination assay with use of 96-well microtitre plates. These isolates were identified upto species level by performing biochemical tests such as phosphatase test, arginine test, maltose and trehalose fermentation tests and novobiocin sensitivity test. The isolates were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility studies, based on the revised standards of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institutes (CLSI). RESULTS During the one year of study, among the total 260 individuals who were screened, 100 isolates of CoNS were obtained. Lipolytic activity was seen in all the isolates, whereas 38 isolates showed a positive result for protease. A total of 63 isolates showed slime production. Of 100 isolates, 30 isolates were analyzed for haemagglutination, where 4 isolates showed the capacity to agglutinate the erythrocytes. The results of the biochemical analysis revealed that of the 100 isolates of CoNS, 43% were Staphylococcus epidermidis. The other isolates were identified as S. xylosus (n=8), S. captis (n=16), S. haemolyticus (n=10), S. saccharolyticus (n=2), S. hominis (n=5), S. saprophyticus (n=6) and S. intermedius (n=1). On the other hand, 9 isolates were not identified. In the antibiotic susceptibility analysis, it was found that most of the isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, amikacin and linczolid and resistant to cefatoxime, oxacillin, bacitracin and nalidixic acid. CONCLUSION S. epidermidis was found to be predominant in causing the ocular complications. Slime production, heamagglutination, protease and lipase activities could be the putative virulence factors of CoNS. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of CoNS against antibacterial agents revealed maximum resistance to beta lactam groups, and the resistance was found to be higher to oxacillin, and lowest to vancomycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindran Priya
- Research Scholar, Department of Microbiology, Dr. G.R. Damodaran College of Science , Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Arumugam Mythili
- Research Scholar, Department of Microbiology, Dr. G.R. Damodaran College of Science , Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
| | | | - Haridas Sreekumar
- Research Scholar, Department of Microbiology, Dr. G.R. Damodaran College of Science , Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Palanisamy Manikandan
- Scientist and Head, Department of Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital and Post Graduate institute of Ophthalmology , Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Kanesan Panneerselvam
- Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology, M.R Government Arts College , Mannargudi, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Coimbatore Subramanian Shobana
- Associate Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology, Dr. G.R. Damodaran College of Science , Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
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Gratieri T, Gelfuso GM, Lopez RFV, Souto EB. Current efforts and the potential of nanomedicine in treating fungal keratitis. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eop.10.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Tabatabaee A, Mohajernezhadfard Z, Daneshgar F, Mansouri M. Keratomycosis after incidental spillage of vegetative material into the eye: Report of two cases. Oman J Ophthalmol 2013; 6:122-6. [PMID: 24082674 PMCID: PMC3779411 DOI: 10.4103/0974-620x.116659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal corneal ulcers mostly occur after incidental corneal trauma by plant leaves in farm lands or the use of topical corticosteroids or antibiotics. The infection is more prevalent among farmers and harvesters and in some parts of the world is considered as an occupational disease; however, there have been a few reports on the occurrence of such ulcers in healthy individuals after incidental spillage of vegetative material into the eye. The importance of these ulcers is their long-term and refractory course, which makes the visual prognosis unfavorable in most patients, even after appropriate antifungal therapy or ocular interventions. Herein, we present two rare cases of fungal ulcers caused by incidental spillage of vegetative material into the eye while eating nuts and corn. We also discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, as well as visual outcome reviewing the relevant literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Tabatabaee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Mohajernezhadfard
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Daneshgar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Mansouri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Tewari A, Sood N, Vegad MM, Mehta DC. Epidemiological and microbiological profile of infective keratitis in Ahmedabad. Indian J Ophthalmol 2013; 60:267-72. [PMID: 22824594 PMCID: PMC3442460 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.98702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Study of patients attending tertiary care ophthalmology institute at Ahmedabad. AIMS To study the microbiological etiology and epidemiological factors associated with suppurative keratitis. SETTINGS AND DESIGN A total of 150 corneal scrapings were evaluated from patients presenting with corneal ulcers at a tertiary ophthalmology center, Ahmedabad from July 2007 to June 2008. MATERIALS AND METHODS Scrapings were subjected to Gram stain, potassium hydroxide preparation and culture for bacterial and fungal pathogens. Socio-demographic data and risk factors were recorded. RESULTS Ninety percent (135/150) people with corneal ulcers had trauma as predisposing factor for keratitis. Trauma due to wooden objects was the leading cause (46/135) followed by vegetable matter and stone injury (23/135). Microbial etiology was established in 59.3% (89/150) of scrapings. Out of 89 positive isolates, 65.1% (58/89) were bacterial while 34.9% (31/89) were fungal. Among the bacterial isolates, 60.3% (35/58) were Gram-positive cocci while 39.7% (23/58) were Gram-negative bacilli. The most common bacterial isolate was Staphylococus aureus (32.7%, 19/58) followed by coagulase-negative Staphylococci (25.8%, 15/58) and Pseudomonas (18.9%, 11/58). Among the 31 fungal pathogens, Aspergillus species was the most common (35.4%11/31), followed by Fusarium species (22.5%, 7/31). CONCLUSION Trauma with wooden material is the most common predisposing factor for suppurative keratitis. Males were more affected than females. Bacterial ulcers were more common than fungal in areas in and around Ahmedabad. Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus were the commonest bacterial and fungal isolates respectively. Geographical variation persists in microbial etiology of suppurative keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarti Tewari
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Ananthi S, Venkatesh Prajna N, Lalitha P, Valarnila M, Dharmalingam K. Pathogen induced changes in the protein profile of human tears from Fusarium keratitis patients. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53018. [PMID: 23308132 PMCID: PMC3540078 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fusarium is the major causative agent of fungal infections leading to corneal ulcer (keratitis) in Southern India and other tropical countries. Keratitis caused by Fusarium is a difficult disease to treat unless antifungal therapy is initiated during the early stages of infection. In this study tear proteins were prepared from keratitis patients classified based on the duration of infection. Among the patients recruited, early infection (n = 35), intermediate (n = 20), late (n = 11), samples from five patients in each group were pooled for analysis. Control samples were a pool of samples from 20 patients. Proteins were separated on difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) and the differentially expressed proteins were quantified using DeCyder software analysis. The following differentially expressed proteins namely alpha-1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin α2 chain, zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein, apolipoprotein, albumin, haptoglobin precursor - β chain, lactoferrin, lacrimal lipocalin precursor, cystatin SA III precursor, lacritin precursor were identified using mass spectrometry. Variation in the expression level of some of the proteins was confirmed using western blot analysis. This is the first report to show stage specific tear protein profile in fungal keratitis patients. Validation of this data using a much larger sample set could lead to clinical application of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivagnanam Ananthi
- Dr. G. Venkataswamy Eye Research Institute, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, India
| | | | - Prajna Lalitha
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital, Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, India
| | - Murugesan Valarnila
- Dr. G. Venkataswamy Eye Research Institute, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, India
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A 5-year retrospective review of fungal keratitis at hospital universiti sains malaysia. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2012; 2012:851563. [PMID: 23304138 PMCID: PMC3533451 DOI: 10.1155/2012/851563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Revised: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Corneal blindness from healed infected keratitis is one of the most preventable causes of monocular blindness in developing countries, including Malaysia. Our objectives were to identify the causative fungi, predisposing risk factors, the proportion of correct clinical diagnosis, and visual outcome of patients treated in our hospital. Methods. A retrospective review of medical and microbiology records was conducted for all patients who were treated for fungal keratitis at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2007 until December 2011. Results. Forty-seven patients (47/186, 25.27%) were treated for fungal keratitis during the study period. This demonstrated that the incidence of fungal keratitis has increased each year from 2007 to 2011 by 12.50%, 17.65%, 21.21%, 26.83%, and 28.57%, respectively. The most common predisposing factors were injury to the eye followed by use of topical steroid, and preexisting ocular surface disease. Fusarium species were the most common fungal isolated, followed by Candida species. Clinical diagnosis of fungal keratitis was made in 26 of the 41 (63.41%) cases of positive isolates. Of these, in eleven cases (23.40%) patients required surgical intervention. Clinical outcome of healed scar was achieved in 34 (72.34%) cases. Conclusions. The percentage of positive fungal isolated has steadily increased and the trend of common fungal isolated has changed. The latest review regarding fungal keratitis is important for us to improve patients' outcome in the future.
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Karsten E, Watson SL, Foster LJR. Diversity of microbial species implicated in keratitis: a review. Open Ophthalmol J 2012; 6:110-24. [PMID: 23248737 PMCID: PMC3520035 DOI: 10.2174/1874364101206010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Revised: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Microbial keratitis is an infectious disease of the cornea characterised by inflammation and is considered an ophthalmic emergency requiring immediate attention. While a variety of pathogenic microbes associated with microbial keratitis have been identified, a comprehensive review identifying the diversity of species has not been completed. Methods: A search of peer-reviewed publications including case reports and research articles reporting microorganims implicated in keratitis was conducted. Search engines including PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science with years ranging from 1950-2012 were used. Results: 232 different species from 142 genera, representing 80 families were found to be implicated in microbial keratitis. Fungi exhibited the largest diversity with 144 species from 92 genera. In comparison, 77 species of bacteria from 42 genera, 12 species of protozoa from 4 genera and 4 types of virus were identified as the infectious agents. A comparison of their aetiologies shows reports of similarities between genera. Conclusions: The diversity of microbial species implicated in keratitis has not previously been reported and is considerably greater than suggested by incidence studies. Effective treatment is heavily reliant upon correct identification of the responsible microorganisms. Species identification, the risk factors associated with, and pathogenesis of microbial keratitis will allow the development of improved therapies. This review provides a resource for clinicians and researchers to assist in identification and readily source treatment information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Karsten
- Bio/Polymer Research Group, Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science
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Rasool BKA, Salmo HM. Development and clinical evaluation of clotrimazole-β-cyclodextrin eyedrops for the treatment of fungal keratitis. AAPS PharmSciTech 2012; 13:883-9. [PMID: 22696223 PMCID: PMC3429669 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-012-9813-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal keratitis is a serious corneal disease that may result in loss of vision. There are limited treatment options available in Iraqi eye hospitals which might be the main reason behind the poor prognosis of many cases. The purpose of this study was to prepare and pharmaceutically evaluate clotrimazole-β-cyclodextrin (CTZ-β-CD) eyedrops then clinically assess its therapeutic efficacy on fungal keratitis compared with extemporaneous amphotericin B eyedrops (0.5% w/v). A CTZ-β-CD ophthalmic solution was prepared and evaluated by various physicochemical, microbiological, and biological tests. The prepared formula was stable in 0.05 M phosphate buffer pH 7.0 at 40 ± 2°C and 75 ± 5% RH for a period of 6 months. Light has no significant effect on the formula's stability. The CTZ-β-CD eyedrops efficiently complied with the isotonicity, sterility, and antimicrobiological preservative effectiveness tests. Results of the clinical study revealed that 20 (80%) patients showed a favorable response to the CTZ-β-CD eyedrops, while 16 patients (64%) exhibited a favorable response to amphotericin B (P > 0.05). The mean course of treatment was significantly (P < 0.05) less in the CTZ treatment group than in the amphotericin group (21.5 ± 5.2 vs. 28.3 ± 6.4 days, respectively). The CTZ formulation was significantly (P < 0.05) more effective in the management of severe cases and also against Candida sp. than amphotericin B. There was no significant difference (P < 0.05) between both therapies against filamentous fungi. The CTZ-β-CD formulation can be used alternatively to other ophthalmic antimycotic treatment options in developing countries where stability, cost, or efficacy is a limiting factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bazigha K Abdul Rasool
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, Dubai Pharmacy College, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
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Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratitis: a case report and review of literature. Mycopathologia 2012; 174:335-9. [PMID: 22544631 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-012-9546-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
A case report and review of literature is reported of a rare case of fungal keratitis from eastern India. A 32-year-old woman with a history of vegetative trauma presented with keratitis in left eye. Microbiological examination of corneal scraping showed refractile hyphae with aseptate branching filaments and black pigmented colonies on multiple solid agar medium. Organism was identified from culture using D1/D2 region of LSU (Large Sub Unit: 28S rDNA)-based molecular technique. PCR amplified a band with a sequence that was 100 % homologous with Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The organism was susceptible to amphotericin B and voriconazole and demonstrated resistance to itraconazole and fluconazole. A therapeutic keratoplasty was performed following non-responsiveness to initial topical voriconazole (2 %) therapy. Recurrence in graft was controlled with topical voriconazole and intracameral amphotericin B. However, the graft failed at the end of 3 months. L. theobromae is a rare cause of fungal keratitis. Management of these cases is difficult, often involving surgical procedures.
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Kumar A, Pandya S, Kavathia G, Antala S, Madan M, Javdekar T. Microbial keratitis in Gujarat, Western India: findings from 200 cases. Pan Afr Med J 2011; 10:48. [PMID: 22384294 PMCID: PMC3290878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to study the epidemiological characteristics and the microbiological profile of patients suspected with microbial keratitis in Gujarat. METHODS Corneal scraping was collected from 200 consecutive cases of suspected microbial keratitis and was subjected to direct examination and culture. RESULTS Of the 200 ulcers 55% were culture positive, 26.5% were bacterial ulcers of which 47% were due to Staphylococcus spp. Pure fungal growth was seen in 22% while 6% were mixed ulcers. Fusarium spp. (30%) was the most common fungus followed by Aspergillus spp. (21%). Only one case of Acanthamoeba keratitis was encountered. Patients were mainly from rural areas (61.5%) with male preponderance (61.5%). Corneal injury was seen in 78.5% cases of which 53% had injury with vegetative matter. Prior treatment was seen in 58% of which 5% had been treated by village healers. Nineteen patients (9.5%) also used some kind of traditional topical treatment. Increased incidence was seen from August to December. Five case of fugal ulcers lead to perforation of which three were due to Fusarium spp. whereas perforation was seen in only two cases of bacterial ulcers due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. CONCLUSION Staphylococcus and Fusarium spp. were the most common etiological agents in our region. Predominant outdoor agricultural activity is the principal causative factor for corneal injury. Corneal ulcers complicated due to treatment by village healers are another important concern. The information regarding regional etiology will help empirical management as many eye clinics do not have microbiological facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Ponekara, Kochi-682041, Kerala India,Corresponding author: Anil Kumar, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Ponekkara, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | | | | | - Sejul Antala
- Department of Microbiology, Subrati Medical College, Merrut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Molly Madan
- Department of Microbiology, Baroda Medical College, Baroda, Gujarat, India
| | - Tanuja Javdekar
- Department of Microbiology, Baroda Medical College, Baroda, Gujarat, India
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Norcross EW, Sanders ME, Moore QC, Taylor SD, Tullos NA, Caston RR, Dixon SN, Nahm MH, Burton RL, Thompson H, McDaniel LS, Marquart ME. Active Immunization with Pneumolysin versus 23-Valent Polysaccharide Vaccine for Streptococcus pneumoniae Keratitis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:9232-43. [PMID: 22039231 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-6968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine whether active immunization against pneumolysin (PLY), or polysaccharide capsule, protects against the corneal damage associated with Streptococcus pneumoniae keratitis. METHODS New Zealand White rabbits were actively immunized with Freund's adjuvant mixed with pneumolysin toxoid (ψPLY), Pneumovax 23 (PPSV23; Merck, Whitehouse Station, NJ), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), before corneal infection with 10⁵ colony-forming units (CFU) of S. pneumoniae. Serotype-specific rabbit polyclonal antisera or mock antisera were passively administered to rabbits before either intravenous infection with 10¹¹ CFU S. pneumoniae or corneal infection with 10⁵ CFU of S. pneumoniae. RESULTS After active immunization, clinical scores of corneas of the rabbits immunized with ψPLY and Freund's adjuvant were significantly lower than scores of the rabbits that were mock immunized with PBS and Freund's adjuvant or with PPSV23 and Freund's adjuvant at 48 hours after infection (P ≤ 0.0010), whereas rabbits immunized with PPSV23 and Freund's adjuvant failed to show differences in clinical scores compared with those in mock-immunized rabbits (P = 1.00) at 24 and 48 hours after infection. Antisera from rabbits actively immunized with PPSV23 and Freund's adjuvant were nonopsonizing. Bacterial loads recovered from infected corneas were higher for the ψPLY- and PPSV23-immunized rabbits after infection with WU2, when compared with the mock-immunized rabbits (P ≤ 0.007). Conversely, after infection with K1443, the ψPLY-immunized rabbits had lower bacterial loads than the control rabbits (P = 0.0008). Quantitation of IgG, IgA, and IgM in the sera of ψPLY-immunized rabbits showed high concentrations of PLY-specific IgG. Furthermore, anti-PLY IgG purified from ψPLY-immunized rabbits neutralized the cytolytic effects of PLY on human corneal epithelial cells. Passive administration of serotype-specific antisera capable of opsonizing and killing S. pneumoniae protected against pneumococcal bacteremia (P ≤ 0.05), but not against keratitis (P ≥ 0.476). CONCLUSIONS Active immunization with pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide and Freund's adjuvant fails to produce opsonizing antibodies, and passive administration of serotype specific opsonizing antibodies offers no protection against pneumococcal keratitis in the rabbit, whereas active immunization with the conserved protein virulence factor PLY and Freund's adjuvant is able to reduce corneal inflammation associated with pneumococcal keratitis, but has variable effects on bacterial loads in the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin W Norcross
- Department of Microbiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216, USA
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