Predisposing factor and etiological diagnosis of corneal ulcer

Aims and Objectives: To identify the specific pathogenic organisms risk factors responsible for infection in corneal ulcer patient. Materials and Method: The present study was undertaken on 100 patients of corneal ulcer attending the outpatient department of Navodaya medical college hospital and research centre, Raichur, with special reference to the etiology and predisposing factors, examination in detail for morphological features, microbiological work up, management and follow up. Results: Out of 100 patients in 100 eyes, M: F ratio was 1.7:1. Most common age group affected was between 31 – 50 years for all types of infectious keratitis 37.5%, 44.1%, 37.5% and 49.99% for bacterial, mycotic, mixed and sterile keratitis. Socio-economically poor classes had 87% of keratitis. Keratitis occurred more frequently in the residents of rural areas 79%. Trauma was found to be the most common predisposing factor 60% followed by chronic dacryocystitis 6%,chronic steroid use 6%, lid disorders 6%, dry eye 5%, corneal degenerations / dystrophy 4%, contact lens use 1%, diabetes 1%, none 11%. Inferonasal cornea was involved with highest frequency in bacterial and central cornea in fungal keratitis. Staphylococcus epidermidis 37.04% was the most common bacterial isolate followed by staphylococcus aureus 24.07%. Fusarium sp. 33.3% and aspergillus sp. 33.3% were most common of fungal isolates. Conclusion: Central corneal ulceration is a common problem in surroundings of Raichur and most often occurs after a superficial corneal injury with organic material. Bacterial keratitis is maginally higher than fungal keratitis. Staphylococcus epidermidis is most common bacterial and Fusarium spp. And aspergillus spp are the most common fungal isolate. Staining can be the efficient tool for starting the specific medical therapy in the management of corneal ulcer in the places where culture facilities are not available.