Pediatric Microbial Keratitis: Identification of Clinical Biomarkers for Prognosis and Outcome of 218 Cases From 2009 to 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the risk factors, microbiological profile, and treatment efficacy in pediatric microbial keratitis (MK) and to identify clinical biomarkers prognosticating outcome. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted from patients younger than 16 years with MK-excluding viral, marginal, or interstitial keratitis. Data pertaining to predisposing factors, symptom duration, prior treatment, ulcer characteristics, microbiological profile, time to resolution, and final outcome were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed. The mixed-effects linear regression model with random intercept was used to evaluate factors affecting time to resolution. Results: Among 218 episodes of 215 pediatric patients with MK, the geometric mean of central [median 3 mm, interquartile range (IQR) 1–4.3 mm] and peripheral ulcers (median 1 mm, IQR 1–2.5 mm) was significantly different (P
Source: Cornea - Category: Opthalmology Tags: Clinical Science Source Type: research