What are Fungal Eye Diseases | Fungal Disease Awareness Week

​Various types of pathogens can affect the eyes and lead to an infection. Although fungal infections are much less common than bacterial and viral eye infections, they can be very severe. Fungal eye infections can lead to permanent vision problems, including blindness. September 23rd marks the start of Fungal Disease Awareness Week and it’s an excellent time to learn more about fungal eye infections and how to prevent them. 
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Symptoms

Symptoms of fungal infections can develop a few days or a few weeks after a fungus gets into the eye. Symptoms may vary in severity and include:
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• Discharge from the eye
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Excess tearing
• Sensitivity to light 
• Redness

The symptoms above are similar to other infections, such as those caused by a virus or bacteria. At first glance, a doctor may not know the cause of an eye infection. That’s why it’s critical to see an eye doctor as soon as symptoms start, so tests can confirm the type of infection present.   
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Types of fungi that cause eye infections

Different varieties of fungi can lead to an eye infection. Common types include:

• Aspergillus: This is a common fungus that lives in all kinds of environments and can be contracted indoors or outdoors.
• Candida: Candida is a type of yeast in the mucous membranes of the body. It is typically harmless and does not lead to infections. But when an overgrowth of yeast develops, it can become problematic.
• Fusarium: Fusarium is a fungus that is found outside, particularly in plants or soil.

Any one of the above fungi can lead to an eye infection. Possible infections include keratitis, which involves the cornea.  Keratitis can either be superficial and only infect the outer layers of the cornea or affect the deeper layers. Another possible infection is endophthalmitis, which infects the inside of the eye. 
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​Who gets fungal eye infections?

Fungal infections are not as common as other types of eye infections, but similar to other pathogens, fungal infections can affect anyone. In most cases, a fungal eye infection occurs due to an eye injury or after eye surgery. In both cases, fungus from the outside makes its way into the eye. Although rare, a fungal infection in the bloodstream can travel to the eye and lead to an eye infection. 

Diagnosis

If symptoms of any type of infection are present, it’s essential to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Waiting to see a healthcare provider can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
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To make a diagnosis, the doctor takes a medical history and performs an eye exam. A tiny sample of fluid or tissue from the eye may be taken to send to a lab for analysis. The specimen is examined or cultured to check for the presence of fungus. Once a definitive diagnosis is made, proper treatment can start.  

Treatment

The treatment for a fungal infection in the eye often depends on the type of fungus, the part of the eye infected, and the severity. In mild fungal infections, antifungal eye drops may be all that is needed.
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In more significant infections, oral antifungal drugs may be administered. If a person’s condition prevents them from taking oral medications, antifungal drugs can also be delivered through a vein or directly into the eye. Severe fungal infections that do not respond to medication may require surgery.
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Prevention

There are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of developing an eye infection, including fungal infections. Consider the following suggestions:

• Wear swim goggles when swimming in a fresh body of water to prevent the fungus from getting into the eyes.
• When working with plants, soil, or on a farm, wear protective eyewear to avoid an eye injury.
• If you wear contacts, be sure to always wash your hands before handling your lenses.

If you have signs of any type of eye infection, see your doctor immediately. If you have any questions about fungal eye infections or would like to schedule an exam, please phone our office at 508-746-8600. 
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