Ocular infection with Gliocladium species—report of a case

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to report a case of ocular infection with Gliocladium species due to an exposed scleral buckle. Design: Interventional case report was used as the study design. Methods: A 60-year-old diabetic male patient presented with persistent pain, redness, and discharge in his left eye since 2 months. He had been treated previously with both topical and systemic steroids for a diagnosis of autoimmune scleritis. He had undergone scleral buckling surgery with cryotherapy for an inferior rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in the past. His best-corrected visual acuity was 6/6, N6 and 6/6, N6 in the right and left eyes, respectively. Retraction of the left lower lid revealed an exposed scleral buckle with an overlying necrotic conjunctiva. Scleral buckle removal was done. Microbiological examination showed Gliocladium species growing on blood agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar. Treatment was started with topical antifungal medication and oral antibiotics. Results: Following treatment, signs of infection showed resolution. Patient underwent retinal reattachment surgery with favorable anatomic and visual outcome. Conclusion: Ocular infection with Gliocladium species has not been previously reported. Poor response to steroids and uncontrolled diabetes should make the clinician aware of a possible fungal infection. Removal of the scleral buckle, identification of the causative organism, and use of appropriate antibiotics are important for the accurate management of the case.