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Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2025; 242(06): 636-642
DOI: 10.1055/a-2598-5668
Übersicht

Mycotic Keratitis – Signs, Diagnosis, Therapy

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
Robert Bock
Augenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Deutschland
,
Mathias Roth
Augenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Deutschland
,
Gerd Geerling
Augenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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Abstract

Mycotic keratitis is a rare but serious infection of the cornea that occurs particularly in wearers of contact lenses and in patients with systemic diseases, such as diabetes or immunosuppression. It is often caused by filamentous fungi such as Fusarium spp. and Aspergillus spp. or by yeasts, in particular Candida spp. The diagnosis of mycotic keratitis is challenging, as clinical signs are often non-specific. Diagnosis includes in vivo confocal microscopy, fungal cultures and histopathological examinations. Early and targeted diagnosis is crucial, in order to avoid serious complications. Treatment is based on the use of antimycotics such as natamycin and voriconazole. In refractory cases, early surgical intervention, usually by means of keratoplasty, is necessary. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of mycotic keratitis and to provide clinical recommendations for the effective management of this challenging disease.

Keywords

keratomycosis - Candida spp. - Fusarium spp. - contact lens-associated keratitis - infectious keratitis


Publication History

Received: 24 January 2025

Accepted: 17 April 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
30 April 2025

Article published online:
16 June 2025

© 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

 

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