Failure of Listeria monocytogenes keratitis to respond to topical ofloxacin.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate the need for identification of the offending pathogen in bacterial keratitis to guide appropriate treatment.

METHODS

Case report.

RESULTS

We report a case of Listeria monocytogenes keratitis in a young healthy adult that failed to respond to standard empirical therapy for bacterial keratitis but was treated successfully with topical ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and systemic amoxicillin.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrates the need for identification of the offending pathogen to guide appropriate treatment. It also demonstrates discrepancy between in vitro sensitivity and clinical response.