---
title: What is fungal keratitis?
description: "Fungal [keratitis is a corneal infection](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-keratitis-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/) 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…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-fungal-keratitis/"
updated: "2026-01-22"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is fungal keratitis?

Fungal [keratitis is a corneal infection](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-keratitis-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/) 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.