Fungal keratitis is a corneal infection caused by filamentous fungi or yeasts. It is less common than bacterial keratitis in the UK but can be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat.
Who is at risk?
Risk factors include corneal trauma with plant material, contact lens wear, long-term steroid eye drops, and immunosuppression. Symptoms are similar to other corneal ulcers but may progress more slowly.
- Causes eye pain, redness, discharge, and blurred vision
- Often shows feathery or fluffy corneal infiltrates
- Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of corneal perforation
Treatment
Diagnosis is confirmed with corneal scrapings and microbiology tests. Management requires intensive topical antifungal drops and careful follow-up in a specialist corneal or general ophthalmology clinic.
