Vibrio vulnificus corneal ulcer: rapid resolution of a virulent pathogen.

PURPOSE: To describe a corneal ulcer due to Vibrio vulnificus that resolved rapidly with antibiotic therapy alone.

METHOD: Case report and review of literature.

RESULTS

This is the third reported case of corneal ulcer due to V. vulnificus. All followed trauma sustained during oyster shucking. Both prior cases required invasive therapy to achieve a cure. Our case responded rapidly to hourly treatment with ciprofloxacin, Neosporin, and fortified vancomycin.

CONCLUSION

V. vulnificus is a virulent pathogen that can infect the cornea after shellfish injury to the eye. Clinical suspicion and early therapy with appropriate antibiotics can lead to an excellent outcome.