Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis caused by Septata intestinalis in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

PURPOSE: To examine and treat a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) who had mildly hyperemic conjunctiva and epithelial keratopathy in both eyes.

METHODS

The patient underwent conjunctival biopsy. The specimen was examined by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Septata intestinalis was demonstrated to be the cause of keratoconjunctivitis in the patient. The keratoconjunctivitis resolved after three weeks of therapy with topical fumagillin. No organisms were seen on repeat conjunctival biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis in patients with AIDS can be caused by S. intestinalis. This condition appears to respond to topical fumagillin.