Nontuberculous mycobacterial keratitis. Report of two cases and review of the literature
R. H. Bullington Jr, J. D. Lanier and R. L. Font
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas, Houston.
We report two cases of nontuberculous mycobacterial keratitis. To our
knowledge, case 1 is the first documented case of Mycobacterium chelonei
sclerokeratitis and case 2 is the first report of Mycobacterium flavescens
keratitis. A total of 40 cases of nontuberculous mycobacterial keratitis
involving at least five different species have been reported previously in
the literature. Almost all of these opportunistic infections have occurred
following either accidental or surgical ocular trauma, usually associated
with the use of local corticosteroids. Encountered infrequently, these
organisms can be incorrectly identified as other bacteria, including
diphtheroids and Nocardia species. Histopathologic examination and special
stains of infected tissues may be helpful in establishing the correct
diagnosis. Cultures and sensitivity testing are mandatory in determining
appropriate treatment.
