CLINICAL PROFILE OF MICROSPORIDIAL KERATITIS AT A TERTIARY EYE CARE CENTER IN BUNDELKHAND REGION

Background: Although rare, microsporidia are sometimes misdiagnosed as the cause of corneal infections. The ubiquitous, obligatory, intracellular parasite is the causal agent. In Asia, the prevalence of microsporidiosis is rising in tandem with the monsoon season. Immunosuppression (HIV infection, topical corticosteroids), contact lens usage, and injuries from water or dirt exposure are risk factors.

Purpose: To study clinical profile of patient with microsporidial keratitis in department of ophthalmology at M.L.B. Medical College Jhansi between April to October 2024. To summarizes the current literature on the etiology and clinical presentation of microsporidial infections of the cornea and highlights ongoing developments in available diagnostic modalities and treatment regimens.

Materials and Methods: Prospective study of 20 patients of microsporidial keratitis present in Department of Ophthalmology at M.L B Medical College Jhansi.

Results: A total of 20 patients were examined out of which 19 patients (95%) presented with pain and redness, 18 patients (90%) present with foreign body sensation and blurring of vision, 15 patients (75%) present with photophobia, 14 patients (70%) present with lid swelling. 18 patients (90%) have conjunctival hyperemia, 16 patients (50%) have diffuse punctate epitheliopathy and 1 have deep stromal infiltrateson examination.

Conclusion: Most commonly patients presents with redness and eye pain, followed by foreign body sensation, blurring of vision, photophobia and least commonly with lid swelling.