FUNGAL KERATITIS

ROLE OF TOPICAL MICONAZOLE IN MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Previously no topical antifungal was available and only dermatological preparation
like bifonazole (mycospore) and some systemic antifungal were used for treatment of fungal ulcers. Now
miconazole is available as topical ophthalmic ointment for the management of fungal ulcer. Objectives: To Study
the efficacy of topical miconazole ophthalmic ointment in the management of fungal keratitis and to know the time
period required for complete healing with topical miconazole ophthalmic ointment. Setting: Department of
Ophthalmology, Nishtar Hospital, Multan. Duration: One year (from March 2001 to February 2002). Material and
method: Sample size: 20 patients. Results: According to this study of 20 cases it is apparent that the fungal
keratitis occurred most frequently in patients between 20-70 years of age. It is apparent those males who work at
different places are more prone to disease. Out of 20 cases, 10 (50%) were farmers by occupation. Trauma with
fingernail in 1(5%) patient, trauma with stone in 2(10%) patients. No specific eye disease was present in 12(60%)
cases. Trachoma was present in 4(20%) cases. Blephritis was diagnosed in 2(10%) cases, 2(10%) patients were
suffering from chronic illness like chest infection. Fungal keratitis in 12(60%) was not associated with hypopyon,
6(30%) patients were associated with hypopyon and 2(10%) were associated with end-ophthalmitis. The response
was good in 12(60%) patients and satisfactory in 3(15%). Poor response in 3(15%) and there was no response in
2(10%) cases. Conclusion: Miconazole ophthalmic ointment is a good drug for the treatment of fungal keratitis.