Study of epidemiological characters, predisposing factors and treatment outcome of corneal ulcer patients

Introduction: Corneal ulcer is one of the common reasons for ophthalmic OPD and IPD visit. It is responsible for vision loss inlarge number of patients. We have conducted this study to evaluate epidemiological characteristics, predisposing factors and treatment outcome of corneal ulcer patients in tertiary care teaching hospital. Method: A prospective study of corneal ulcer patients from Dec 2009 to Nov 2013 was done. Data related to socio-demography, predisposing factors, prior treatment and duration of symptoms were recorded. Ulcer was evaluated by slit lamp examination. Corneal scrapings were subjected to Gram`s stain and 10% KOH wet mount. Results: 432 eyes were evaluated.53.9% were between 26-45 yrs.71.06% eyes presented with vision <3/60. Trauma was commonest factor found in 53.93% patients. On staining 22.9% were having fungal and 64.12% mixed bacterial and fungal infection. Anatomically 34.7% completely recovered leaving scar. 3 eyes were eviscerated, rest not completed treatment. Conclusion: Corneal ulcer is common eye problem in developing countries. Most of ulcers were moderate to severe grade. Treatment given on the basis of basic laboratory investigations and clinical features was effective in about 84% of patients. Severe consequences can be prevented by community based awareness.