Recurrence of fungal keratitis in corneal transplant

The article presents a clinical case of fungal keratitis in corneal transplant. A patient 4 months after penetrating keratoplasty performed for progressive corneal ulcer, was diagnosed with recurrence of fungal keratitis. Repetitive penetrating keratoplasty and subsequent anti-inflammatory therapy were performed, but 3 months later white infiltrate with distinct borders appeared in the center of corneal transplant that required removal. Laboratory investigation of the removed fragment revealed Fusarium mycelium; antimycotic treatment with amphotericin B 0.2% topically and intraconazole orally was administered for 3 weeks. In a month after the treatment visual function remained equal to correct light perception, corneal transplant was totally opacified without edema, and corneal defects re-epithelialized. Ophthalmologic examination in 2-3 months showed absence of ocular pain, smooth corneal surface without epithelial defects and corneal transplant opacity. Laboratory diagnostics is necessary in case of fungal infection suspicion. During penetrating keratoplasty for fungal corneal disease, corneal infiltrate has to be removed within intact corneal tissue. Fungal corneal infection recurrence in corneal transplant occurs at the donor-recipient interface.