Systemic Candidiasis and Systemic Mycoses

Systemic Candidiasis

Ocular keratoconjunctivitis is an eye condition that causes inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. There are several types of keratoconjunctivitis, including: 

• Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

  A common condition that occurs when the tear film is deficient or disordered. Symptoms include irritation, a feeling of something in the eye, discharge, and blurred vision. It's often worse in dry or windy conditions, or when there are irritants in the air. 
• Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (spring catarrh)

  A rare, allergic eye disorder that primarily affects children. Symptoms include itching, burning, a foreign body sensation, watering, and discharge. It's more common in hot climates and in the summer. 
• Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC)

  A severe ocular surface infection caused by human adenoviruses. It's characterized by relapsing and remitting corneal inflammation. 

Ocular keratoconjunctivitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the eyes, specifically the cornea and conjunctiva.

Causes

1. _Infections_: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause ocular keratoconjunctivitis.

2. _Allergies_: Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust, or chemicals can trigger the condition.

3. _Irritants_: Exposure to irritants like smoke, wind, or chemicals can cause inflammation.

4. _Autoimmune disorders_: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can increase the risk of developing ocular keratoconjunctivitis.

Symptoms

1. _Redness_: Redness and inflammation of the eyes.

2. _Itching_: Itching or burning sensation in the eyes.

3. _Discharge_: Excessive tearing or discharge.

4. _Blurred vision_: Blurred vision or sensitivity to light.

5. _Eye pain_: Pain or discomfort in the eyes.

Diagnosis

1. _Slit-lamp examination_: A thorough examination of the eyes using a slit lamp.

2. _Fluorescein staining_: A special dye is applied to the eyes to highlight any damage or inflammation.

3. _Culture tests_: Samples are taken from the eyes to check for infections.

4. _Allergy testing_: Tests are conducted to identify any allergens that may be causing the condition.

Treatment

1. _Antibiotics_: Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are prescribed to treat bacterial infections.

2. _Anti-inflammatory medications_: Medications like corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation.

3. _Antihistamines_: Antihistamines are prescribed to relieve itching and allergic reactions.

4. _Lubricating eye drops_: Eye drops are used to soothe and moisturize the eyes.

5. _Avoiding irritants_: Patients are advised to avoid exposure to irritants and allergens.

Complications

1. _Corneal scarring_: Untreated ocular keratoconjunctivitis can lead to corneal scarring and vision loss.

2. _Chronic inflammation_: Chronic inflammation can lead to long-term damage and vision problems.

3. _Increased risk of infections_: Patients with ocular keratoconjunctivitis are more susceptible to other eye infections.