Cross-Linking Pack Plus Plasma in the Mycotic Corneal Ulcer Case Report

Abstract

Fungal keratitis is a complication of refractive surgery that, if not treated in time, can lead to blindness. Given the lack of effective topical treatments for fungal ulcers, surgical treatment is necessary. The least invasive procedure is a cross-linking pack, although it has limitations when the fungus has penetrated the deep layers of the cornea. In this case report, a patient that presented a typical case of fungal corneal ulcer with hand motion perception, on the fourth day after surgery, is described. Given the nonresponse to topical antifungal treatment, plasma treatment was performed prior to cross-linking. Plasma acts by nonmechanical debridement of the ulcer, reducing the fungal colonies and allowing better penetration of riboflavin. After 6 months, the cornea remained transparent, without haze, and the patient achieved 20/25 vision.

Keywords

• fungal keratitis
• fusarium
• cross-linking pack
• plasma
• surgical management