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Cohort studyIrish journal of medical science · 2026

12-year analysis of the microbiological profile of infectious keratitis (IK) in Cork, Ireland.

Kealan McElhinney, James Donnelly, Emily Glynn … Sarah Moran

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OphthalmologyCohort study

Most infectious keratitis specimens in Cork, Ireland, were culture positive.

12-year analysis of the microbiological profile of infectious keratitis (IK) in Cork, Ireland.

Kealan McElhinney et al. · Irish journal of medical science · 2026

Purpose

To determine the frequency and causative pathogens of infectious keratitis (IK) at Cork University Hospital, Ireland.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of IK cases undergoing corneal scraping / swabs between 2010-2022.

n = 387 specimens

60%

Results

most samples from eye infections grew germs in lab tests

n = 387 specimens

More results

Polymicrobial growth was identified in 48 cases (15%).

Of 198 isolates, the most frequently identified organisms were coagulase-negative staphylococci (33%), Staphylococcus aureus (17%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (8%), and Gram-negative bacilli (8%).

More results

Fungal pathogens accounted for 4% of isolates, while mixed skin flora was reported in 8%.

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Conclusion · 1 of 3

This is the largest study describing the microbiological profile of IK in Ireland.

Conclusion · 2 of 3

A high culture-positive rate (60%) with a high rate of isolation of multiple organisms (15%) were observed, likely influenced by skin commensal contaminants such as coagulase-negative Staphylococci.

Conclusion · 3 of 3

The proportion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12%) was lower than expected. No significant antimicrobial resistant isolates were identified, supporting current empiric antimicrobial treatment strategies.

Post

12-year analysis of the microbiological profile of infectious keratitis (IK) in Cork, Ireland.

Most infectious keratitis specimens in Cork, Ireland, were culture positive.

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