Aspergillus keratitis

Aspergillus keratitis: causes, symptoms and treatment

Aspergillus keratitis (also known as corneal aspergillosis) is a rare but serious disease that affects the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. This infectious disease is caused by the Aspergillus fungus, which usually lives in soil, plant debris and air. Although Aspergillus infection usually affects the lungs and airways, in some cases it can spread to the eye and cause aspergillus keratitis.

Causes:
Aspergillus keratitis usually occurs as a result of eye contact with Aspergillus fungal spores. This can occur due to damage to the cornea, such as injury, wearing contact lenses incorrectly, or using contaminated eye drops or medications. People with weakened immune systems, such as patients on immunosuppressive therapy or with HIV infection, are also more susceptible to developing aspergillus keratitis.

Symptoms:
Aspergillus keratitis can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

1. Pain or discomfort in the eye.
2. Redness and inflammation of the eye.
3. Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
4. Decreased vision or blurred vision.
5. Discharge from the eye, which may be cloudy or contain pus.

Treatment:
Treatment of aspergillus keratitis usually includes systemic and local therapy. Systemic therapy involves taking antifungal drugs by mouth to fight the infection in the body. Topical therapy involves the use of eye drops or ointments containing antifungal drugs to directly target the infection in the eye.

In some cases, surgery may be required, especially if there are deep ulcers or destruction of the cornea. Surgical procedures may include removal of damaged tissue, corneal transplantation, or other methods to restore vision.

It is important to consult an ophthalmologist if you suspect aspergillus keratitis. Seeking medical help early can help prevent complications and preserve your vision.

Warning:
To reduce the risk of developing aspergillus keratitis, the following precautions are recommended:

1. Practice good hand hygiene, especially before contact with eyes.
2. Use contact lenses as directed and under your doctor's guidance. Follow the rules for cleaning, disinfecting and replacing them.
3. Avoid using contaminated eye drops or medications. Make sure all eye devices and medications you use are clean and free of contamination.
4. When working with soil, plant materials or other sources of fungal spores, wear safety glasses or other protection to prevent fungi from getting into your eyes.

In conclusion, aspergillus keratitis is a serious eye disease caused by the fungus Aspergillus. Early seeking medical help and proper treatment play an important role in preventing complications and preserving vision. Taking precautions can help reduce your risk of developing this disease. If you experience eye-related symptoms, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Aspergillus keratitis

**Aspergillia keratitis** is an acute or chronic inflammation of the cornea caused by the fungus Aspergillus spp. The disease is often combined with conjunctivitis and tends to spread to deeper tissues. **Aspergillus** keratitis often causes a severe prognosis, including loss of vision. _A._ spp., responsible for keratitis, in clinical practice there are two main groups:\n_- group A._ fumigatus _, characterized by high pathogenicity for humans (primarily causes severe keratitis insensitive to antifungal drugs),\n- group _A_ spp., making up a significant part of _Aspergillus,_ which do not have a keratotropic effect.