Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea, which can cause pain, decreased vision, light sensitivity, ruptures or secretions from the eye. It is usually a consequence of an infection from using contact lenses or trauma to the eye and it develops very quickly. If it is not treated, fungal keratitis can cause blindness. The fungal microorganism usually responsible for this type of keratitis is called Fusarium.
Fusarium is a type of fungus found in soil, water and plants over the entire world, especially those in a warmer climate. Fungal keratitis can occur after damage of the cornea, including with plant material, for example being hit in the eye with a palm branch.
If you have symptoms of fungal keratitis such as pain, decreased vision, light sensitivity, rupture or secretions from the eye, consult your ophthalmologist immediately – treatment should begin right away to prevent possible blindness.
The treatment for fungal keratitis usually includes antifungal eye drops and medications that one takes through the mouth. If this treatment is not enough to clear the infection, surgical treatment, including corneal transplant, may be necessary. In some cases, even corneal surgery cannot restore the lasting damage to eyesight and blindness can occur.