Microbial keratitis: Predisposing factors and morbidity

Abstract

Purpose: To examine predisposing factors, treatment costs, and visual outcome of microbial keratitis in an ophthalmic casualty and inpatient population. Design: Retrospective medical records review. Participants: Fifteen- to 64-year-olds with microbial keratitis treated at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital between May 2001 and April 2003 (n = 291). Methods: Risk factors were identified from patient files. Demographic, clinical, and microbiological data; severity; outpatient visits; hospital bed days; and vision loss were examined. Main Outcome Measures: Cost to treat (Australian dollars), vision loss, and factors influencing these outcomes. Results: Ocular trauma (106/291 [36.4%]) and..