Posters

Superficial keratectomy for dematiaceous fungal keratitis

Poster Details

First Author: P.Dhanapal INDIA

Co Author(s):                        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

This poster demonstrates successful management of dematiaceous fungal keratitis by superficial keratectomy followed by early and monitored topical steroids. Generally, the dematiaceous fungal keratitis present as persistent and lowgrade, smoldering keratitis with pigmentation and colonization on the surface. Hence early removal of these lesions by superficial keratectomy and aggressive treatment by topical antifungals leads to better outcomes.

Setting:

Ratan Jyoti Netralaya Ophthalmic Institute and research center, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India

Methods:

The patient had presented to us with a clinical picture of severe dematiaceous fungal keratitis. Her uncorrected visual acuity was 2/60. She was started on topical and systemic antifungals and intrastromal after microbiological evaluation. Anterior segment OCT was done assess the depth of the ulcer. The ulcer was limited to the anterior corneal stroma. Hence we planned to do superficial keratectomy. The patient was continued on topical and systemic antifungals. The ulcer was responding well to treatment so she was started on low potency topical steroids.

Results:

Over the period of two months, her uncorrected visual acuity improved to 6/18. With early superficial keratectomy and judicious and timely use of topical low potency steroids, the scarring was significantly reduced and the visual acuity improved. The need for keratoplasty was avoided.

Conclusions:

The pigmented fungal keratitis, usually present in the form of plaque-like surface colonization of fungal filaments. Early superficial keratectomy with judicious use of topical low potency steroids leads to better outcomes.

Financial Disclosure:

None