Jayant M. Deshmukh1, Swati M. Bhise2, Asmita Band3
ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: In recent years, fungi have been emerging more commonly as infectious agents in patients of tertiary care centers. AIM: The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of aspergillus infection causing keratomycosis and to determine the predisposing factors associated with these isolates. METHODOLOGY: One hundred twenty nine corneal scrapings from patients with corneal ulcers were subjected to KOH wet mount preparation. Twenty six samples which were positive for fungal elements on direct microscopic examination were also inoculated on Sabouraud's dextrose agar(SDA) medium. RESULTS: Incidence of aspergillus in corneal ulcers was maximum in the age group of 31-50 years (74%). Agriculturists constituted the largest group (42%) & history of trauma was present in 79% of the patients. Aspergillus fumigatus was the commonest species isolated (63%). CONCLUSION: Agricultural activity and related ocular trauma were the principal causes of mycotic keratitis. KOH wet mount preparation is an essential tool in the diagnosis of ocular fungal infections since it is a very simple and sensitive method. However, isolation is important to detect the prevalent strains.
