Work

Recurrent Indolent Keratitis Caused by Achromobacter xylosoxidans: A Case Report and Literature Review

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: An 83-year-old male with a history of radial keratotomy and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) presented with symptoms of a non-resolving corneal ulcer in the right eye that had been present for five months. The patient was treated with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal medications over that period, with multiple recurrences that prompted referral to our tertiary center for management. Following a 48-hour cessation of all medications, a corneal biopsy was performed which grew Achromobacter xylosoxidans. In conclusion, Achromobacter xylosoxidans remains a rare cause of keratitis but should be considered in patients with a slow-progressing disease. Risk factors include previous corneal surgeries or trauma, topical steroid use, and contact lens wear. Because A. xylosoxidans grows slowly, it can have a deep impact on the cornea. To help antibiotics get into the cornea properly, epithelial debridement may be helpful. It does not respond to standard empiric antibiotic therapy. Ceftazidime and fourth-generation fluoroquinolones are better choices for treatment.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.75472

Authors: Haitham F Sahawneh, Jimena Franco, Mohammad Abusamak, Jeremy Bartley

Institutions: University Hospitals of Cleveland, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Al-Balqa Applied University, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Ocular Infections and Treatments

Subfield: Ophthalmology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4405237627