Mycological profile of keratomycosis in a tertiary care centre from Pune Maharashtra

Introduction: Microbial keratitis remains a leading cause of corneal ulcer and blindness worldwide. Mycotic keratitis has emerged as a major ophthalmic problem and contributes to 6-53% of all corneal infections worldwide. Thus the present study was undertaken to assess the spectrum of fungal causes of keratitis in BJGMC & SGH, Pune. Aims and Objectives: 1. To establish the microbiological profile of keratitis. 2. To determine the mycological profile of keratitis. Materials and Methods: The present prospective study was conducted over a period of twelve months in a tertiary care hospital. The study was undertaken to evaluate the etiological profile of keratomycosis with a special reference to mycotic etiology. The corneal scrapings were collected aseptically and processed by direct microscopic methods and standard culture techniques. Results: Of 90 cases of keratitis screened, culture yielded growth in 50 cases (55.6%). These were included in the study. Out of these 50 cases of growth, fungi were isolated in 32% and bacteria in 64% cases. Mixed growth of bacteria and fungi was found in4% cases. Most common fungus found were Fusarium spp. (44.4%) followed by Aspergillus spp. (27.8%), Alternaria spp. (11.1%), Curvulariaspp (11.1%) and Acremonium spp (5.6%). Conclusion: Routine surveillance of fungal keratitis is necessary to know the existing and emerging pattern of pathogens and to prevent inappropriate use of antimicrobial therapy.