Therapeutic Keratoplasty For Fusarium Keratitis: A Case Series Study

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic keratoplasty in treating fungal keratitis, particularly cases caused by Fusarium species. Additionally, it discusses the challenges associated with diagnosing and managing this infectious corneal condition.

This case series study retrospectively reviews cases of fungal keratitis that required therapeutic keratoplasty at our center. The procedure was performed when topical or systemic treatments proved insufficient to control the infection.

We present five challenging cases of fungal keratitis, primarily attributed to Fusarium species, necessitating therapeutic keratoplasty due to resistance to conventional antifungal treatments. These cases exhibited a range of clinical complexities, including rapid disease progression, diagnostic challenges, and resistance to standard therapies. Following therapeutic keratoplasty, all patients achieved successful resolution of the infection, with no evidence of recurrent fungal keratitis during follow-up. However, several cases experienced postoperative complications, including anterior chamber leakage, graft rejection, and ocular hypertension, which were effectively managed. Final visual acuity varied from 0.9 to finger counting.

Fusarium keratitis poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, often requiring keratoplasty for resolution, especially in cases resistant to conventional treatment. Therapeutic keratoplasty is a critical intervention for advanced cases, with early surgical involvement proving essential for favorable outcomes. Preventive strategies, including contact lens hygiene and ocular health education, play a vital role in reducing the incidence of this condition. The study underscores the importance of heightened awareness and swift management of fusarium keratitis to preserve ocular health and prevent progression to more invasive surgical interventions.