A Clinical Study Of Fungal Keratitis And Its Management In A Tribal Government Hospital

Background: Fungal keratitis is a serious concern for ocular morbidity in developing country like India. It can lead to a variety of ocular complications, a major proportion of which is preventable with early intervention. As the treatment requires usage of topical medications for prolonged periods, the cost factors, socioeconomic and educational status of patients play a major role in the management and recovery. Materials and Methods: A study of 30 cases of fungal corneal ulcers was conducted in our hospital. A detailed history was taken and complete ocular and systemic examination was done. Microbiological work up of corneal scrapings was done. After that treated with topical and systemic antifungals, cycloplegics and anti-glaucoma medications. Followed for a period of 8 weeks. Results: All patients were KOH positive for fungal organisms. All of them had history of trauma and injury with vegetative matter. . 90 % of cases have raised blood sugars Topical Natamycin was used in all patients. After treatment 26 cases were healed with corneal opacity. 2 cases were referred immediately due to perforated corneal ulcer. 2 cases were referred after 2 weeks due to resistance to treatment Conclusion: The accurate diagnosis, early management, timely referral is most important in preventing ocular morbidity due to fungal keratitis