SCANNING SLIT CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY OF FUNGAL KERATITIS

In vivo scanning slit confocal microscopy was performed in a patient w ith Fusarium solani keratitis. Morphologically distinctive abundant fi lamentous structures were observed intrastromally. Confocal microscopy of the culture plate growing F solani from the patient's corneal scra ping revealed filaments morphologically similar to the filaments obser ved in vivo. After 1 week of medical therapy, subsequent confocal micr oscopy showed an increased load of filaments, supporting the decision to perform a penetrating keratoplasty. Confocal microscopy confirmed t hat all of the fungus was eradicated. This aided in the decision to ad minister corticosteroids and quickly discontinue antifungal agents.