Fungal Keratitis
Fungal Keratitis
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
Q1: How can I prevent fungal keratitis?
A: Proper eye hygiene, especially if you wear contact lenses, is key. Avoid eye injuries by using protective eyewear when handling plants or working outdoors.
Q2: Is fungal keratitis contagious?
A: No, fungal keratitis is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person.
Q3: Can fungal keratitis cause permanent vision loss?
A: Yes, if left untreated, fungal keratitis can lead to severe complications, including permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
About Fungal Keratitis
Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, caused by fungi. This condition is rare but can lead to significant vision loss if left untreated. It often occurs after an injury to the eye, especially if the trauma involves plant material or occurs in a rural setting. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.
Causes of Fungal Keratitis
Fungal keratitis is caused by the following fungi:
- Fusarium: Often found in soil and plants.
- Aspergillus: Another common environmental fungus.
- Candida: A yeast-like fungus usually found on the skin and mucous membranes.
Risk factors include:
- Eye injury, especially from plant material (thorns, twigs, etc.)
- Pre-existing eye conditions, such as dry eye or corneal ulcers
- Use of contact lenses, particularly when not used or cleaned properly
- Weakened immune system
Types of Fungal Keratitis
Fungal keratitis can be classified into different types based on the infecting fungus:
- Filamentous Fungal Keratitis: Caused by fungi like Fusarium or Aspergillus, which are more common in warm and humid environments.
- Yeast Fungal Keratitis: Caused by fungi like Candida, often seen in patients with chronic eye diseases or who have had eye surgery.
Symptoms of Fungal Keratitis
The symptoms of fungal keratitis can develop slowly and often include:
- Redness of the eye
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
Diagnosis of Fungal Keratitis
Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Dr. Suraj Munjal recommends the following diagnostic procedures:
- Eye Examination: A detailed check of the cornea using a slit lamp to look for signs of infection.
- Corneal Scraping: A small sample from the cornea is taken to be tested for the presence of fungi under a microscope.
- Culture Test: The sample may also be cultured in a lab to identify the specific fungus involved.
Early diagnosis greatly improves the success rate of treatment.
Treatment of Fungal Keratitis
Treating fungal keratitis can be challenging, and the treatment plan depends on the severity of the infection. Common treatments include:
- Antifungal Eye Drops: The first line of treatment, which targets the fungal infection directly.
- Oral Antifungal Medications: For more severe cases, oral medications may be required.
- Surgical Intervention: If the infection doesn’t respond to medication, surgical options like corneal debridement or, in extreme cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary.
Dr. Suraj Munjal emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed treatment plan and attending follow-up appointments to monitor recovery.
Cost of Treatment and Stay in India
India has become a popular destination for medical treatments due to high-quality care at affordable costs. The cost of fungal keratitis treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the type of intervention required.
- Cost of Treatment: Typically ranges from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Stay in India: Most patients require a stay of 1 to 2 weeks, depending on recovery and treatment. India offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, ensuring a comfortable stay during treatment.