A case of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis complicated by Alcaligenes xylosoxidans infection.

PURPOSE: To report a case of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis complicated by Alcaligenes xylosoxidans.

METHODS

A 37-year-old man suffered epidemic keratoconjunctivitis in both eyes. Eleven days later, he developed a corneal ulcer in his left eye. Bacterial staining, culture, and antibiotics sensitivity test were performed from a corneal scrape.

RESULTS

The cultures revealed a growth of Alcaligenes xylosoxidans, and the patient was treated with ceftazidime and levofloxacin, based on the sensitivity test results. After 21 days of treatment, the infection was resolved with mild scaring and final vision in the left eye of 20/20.

CONCLUSIONS

Alcaligenes xylosoxidans should be considered a rare but potential pathogen able to produce comeal ulcer complication in epidemic keratoconjunctivitis.