Corneal Infection Research Projects
Corneal infection or microbial keratitis (MK) is a major cause of sight loss, which can lead to blindness and increased risk of death. A common cause is through surface trauma from agricultural and outdoor labour. The cornea (clear, curved, and transparent outer layer of the eye) is scratched, and then becomes infected with microbes that cause further damage to the eye, resulting in a loss of vision.
In temperate regions the large majority of infections are caused by bacteria. In contrast, in tropical regions fungal infections occur more frequently.
There are multiple critical issues related to this disease: delayed presentation, the use of traditional eye medicines, limited health-worker training, limited availability and efficacy of anti-fungals and diagnostic uncertainty.
Our research focuses on epidemiology, prevention, diagnostic tests and treatment to ensure that people do not unnecessarily lose their sight from this condition.
Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment
We are conducting a series of clinical trials on corneal infection to improve treatment outcomes and prevent severe disease.
Artificial Intelligence
A new project by ICEH will develop and test a smartphone-based artificial intelligence (AI) tool for diagnosing corneal infections in Nepal.
Global Epidemiology
Fungal keratitis is known to be prevalent in many countries around the world, but until recently very little epidemiological research has been conducted in Africa, Asia, and Central/South America to calculate its global incidence.
Traditional Healers
Several research projects at ICEH have assessed the impact of traditional healers in eye medicine.
Corneal Infection Research Projects
Corneal infection or microbial keratitis (MK) is a major cause of sight loss, which can lead to blindness and increased risk of death. A common cause is through surface trauma from agricultural and outdoor labour. The cornea (clear, curved, and transparent outer layer of the eye) is scratched, and then becomes infected with microbes that cause further damage to the eye, resulting in a loss of vision.
In temperate regions the large majority of infections are caused by bacteria. In contrast, in tropical regions fungal infections occur more frequently.
There are multiple critical issues related to this disease: delayed presentation, the use of traditional eye medicines, limited health-worker training, limited availability and efficacy of anti-fungals and diagnostic uncertainty.
Our research focuses on epidemiology, prevention, diagnostic tests and treatment to ensure that people do not unnecessarily lose their sight from this condition.
Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment
We are conducting a series of clinical trials on corneal infection to improve treatment outcomes and prevent severe disease.
Artificial Intelligence
A new project by ICEH will develop and test a smartphone-based artificial intelligence (AI) tool for diagnosing corneal infections in Nepal.
Global Epidemiology
Fungal keratitis is known to be prevalent in many countries around the world, but until recently very little epidemiological research has been conducted in Africa, Asia, and Central/South America to calculate its global incidence.
Traditional Healers
Several research projects at ICEH have assessed the impact of traditional healers in eye medicine.