A STUDY ON CLINICO-ETIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF MYCOTIC KERATITIS IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL AT GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGE, KOTA (RAJASTHAN)

Introduction: Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea. Infective keratitis is an ocular emergency that requires prompt and appropriate management to ensure the best visual outcome for the patient. This study was planned to determine the fungal aetiological agents and predisposing risk factors causing corneal ulcer in patients. Methodology: This study was conducted in department of Microbiology at a tertiary medical facility This Analytical Cross-sectional study, was conducted for the study period of one year from May 2021 to April 2022. Total 100 patients of infective keratitis were enrolled in the study period. Cases who have received treatment previously either systemic or topical antifungal in the last six months duration were excluded from the study. Results: Trauma was found to be the most common predisposing factors present in almost two third (64%) of cases. The peak of the fungal kerartits cases were seen in September- October and Februrary- March. Sensitivity and specificity of 10% KOH wet mount was 93.75% and 98.5% respectively. Out of 31 culture positive the most common organisms isolated were Aspergillus spp in 16 samples, followed by Fusarium spp in 6 samples, and Candida spp in 6 samples. C.albicans was found 100% sensitive to Clotrimazole, Nystatin and Amphotericin-B, while 75% sensitive to Itraconazole and 50% sensitive to Fluconazole. Conclusion: Mycotic keratitis has a significant burden in corneal keratitis. The KOH preparation can be used as an ideal technique for revealing fungal elements. The awareness about the ocular hygiene and protection, from occupational hazard needs to be emphasized in case of any ocular trauma and disease.