Microbiological study in cases of corneal ulcer and clinical outcome

Introduction: Cornea is anterior transparent layer of eye and important for image formation. Keratitis (corneal inflammation) and resulting corneal ulcer is important clinical challenge in ophthalmology. Prompt treatment requires identification of organism involved. Insight regarding types of organisms involved, patient demography, antibiotic sensitivity greatly helps in better patient management. Materials and Methods: Patients with clinical diagnosis of ‘Corneal ulcer', attending Department of Ophthalmology GMERS Medical College, Gandhinagar were selected for this observational study. Total 79 patients were studied. Detailed history and ocular examination were undertaken for each patient. Corneal scrapings from corneal ulcer were taken for pathological and laboratory study to identify type of organism and its antibiotic sensitivity. Data was arranged in tables for analysis. Diverse types of organisms and their frequency of occurrence was calculated. Patients were selected as per predefined criteria. Study recruitment was done after informed consent. Institutional ethics committee clearance was obtained. Discussion: Corneal ulcer is important and serious ophthalmic problem contributing to significant portion of total blindness burden in our country. Understanding types and varieties of organisms gives insight regarding local community conditions. Antibiotic sensitivity study gives accurate guideline regarding precise use of antibiotic thereby shortening treatment period and minimizing antibiotic resistance. Comparison about various similar studies were carried out to elucidate findings. Results: Patient demographics tables and graphs were prepared and analysis presented.