Diagnosis of keratomycosis: an update

Keratomycosis is defined as infiltration of the cornea by fungi. Majority of cases are infiltrated by filamentous fungi. Keratomycosis is an ophthalmic emergency as prompt and reliable diagnosis with efficient treatment can prevent vision loss. Improper diagnosis with injudicious use of medical therapy may result in worsening of the condition with poor clinical outcome. Traditional diagnostic methods like staining and culture are highly specific but with low sensitivity. Newer diagnostic methods like Confocal Microscopy, Fluorescent Microscopy and PCR have greater sensitivity as compared to traditional methods. With better diagnostic tools a good clinical outcome can be ensured, thus the reducing ocular morbidity especially in tropical countries like India. Prompt and reliable diagnosis is the main-key to reduce the ocular morbidity in infectious keratitis.