DR. MANPREET KAUR

DR. YOGESH KUMAR

Abstract

Mycotic keratitis or keratomycosis is an infection of cornea caused by a variety of fungal species. It is a condition resulting in blindness if untreated seen especially in tropical and sub-tropical countries. A cross sectional study was conducted for 3 years at a tertiary care hospital of rural North India. After obtaining informed consent, a detailed history was taken from suspected mycotic keratitis patients. Then corneal scrapings were taken under slit lamp and processed in microbiology lab for isolation and identification of causative agents.81 (71.1%) samples were found to be positive for fungal growth. Males were affected more than females (1.53:1). Individuals belonging to age group of 21-40 years were involved the most. Farmers (48.1%) were affected the most among all. The predominant fungal species isolated was Candida followed by Aspergillus and Fusarium.