Experimental model of Fusarium solani keratitis in rats

AIM: To establish a repeatable rat model of Fusarium solani keratitis (F. solani keratitis) that mimicked fungal keratitis in humans. METHODS: Wistar rats' corneas were scratched on the superficial stroma after scraping the unilateral corneal epithelia. Then, the corneal surface was inoculated with different inoculum dose of E solanispore suspension. Doses ranged from 10(6) to 10(9) colony-forming unit per milliliter (CFU/mL). The treated corneas were covered by contact lenses that were made of Parafilm M membrane. Negative controls were inoculated with sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). For statistical analysis, corneas were evaluated daily on a 12-point scale to check the state of corneal inflammation. Furthermore, the pathological characteristics of this model were investigated. RESULTS: The rat model of F solani keratitis was established by the combination methods of corneal trauma and parafilm-made contact lens and inoculation of fungus spore suspension. 10(6) and 10(7)CFU/mL of F solani induced mild corneal infection, while 10(8)CFU/mL of F solani was sufficient to induce moderate infection that was consistent with human keratomycosis. Dose of 10(9)CFU/mL of E solani was excessive and led to perforated corneas. CONCLUSION: The rat model of E solani keratitis, established by the combinational methods of corneal trauma, parafilm-made contact lens and the appropriate dose of inoculum, that imitates the developing processes of F solani keratitis in human beings and provides a repeatable method of creating a rat model.