Rare cases of fungal keratitis: Complications

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.159410424131211

• Palavras-chave: Fungal keratitis; plant trauma, Acremonium sp.; Scytalidium sp.

• Keywords: Fungal keratitis; plant trauma, Acremonium sp.; Scytalidium sp.

• Abstract:

  Fungal keratitis is a rare eye infection, usually caused by filamentous (Fusarium, Aspergillus) or yeast-like (Candida) fungi. The main risk factors include eye trauma, steroid use and contact lenses. The infection can lead to serious complications, requiring early diagnosis and treatment. 
  The article describes two rare clinical cases caused by unusual infectious agents: the first is of a 72-year-old patient with an Acremonium spp. infection following ocular trauma and steroid use, who required therapeutic keratoplasty and made a good recovery; the second, of a 58-year-old patient with a Scytalidium sp. infection resulting from a marimbondo sting, who responded positively to treatment with topical antifungals.
  Early diagnosis is challenging and requires corneal scraping. Treatment involves topical antifungals and, in refractory cases, keratoplasty. Prophylaxis includes wearing safety glasses and taking care when wearing contact lenses.