Abstract
Purpose::
To evaluate whether the rates of contact lens-related and non-contact lens related fungal keratitis have been increasing at a tertiary referral center, and to identify behavioral and environmental risk factors.
Methods::
Retrospective review of all cases of fungal keratitis since 1/2001 to identify causative organism, history of contact lens wear, and other risk factors. Data from 2005 and 2006 will be examined to determine whether an upward trend in fungal keratitis cases exists.
Results::
There were 43 cases of fungal keratitis, 21% were related to contact lens wear, and 45% of those were caused by Fusarium. Seventy-nine percent of the cases were unrelated to contact lens wear, and only 6% of those were caused by Fusarium. An increase in incidence of contact lens related fusarium keratitis was observed throughout 2005-06.
Conclusions::
A variety of fungal species, as well as environmental and behavioral risk factors are important causes of fungal keratitis. Fusarium keratitis was seen more commonly in contact lens wearers, with an increasing incidence over the past two years.
Keywords: fungal disease • contact lens • keratitis