[Experimental candida keratitis. Histological, immunological and electron microscopical studies (author's transl)].

Using histological, immunohistological and electron microscopical methods, it could be demonstrated that the course of experimental Candida albicans keratitis in mice invlves three phases: a traumatically caused alternative phase is followed by a granulocytic exsudative phase and finally by a proliferative phase. The experiments were followed over 41 days. Fungal elements could be detected only during the first 4 days after infection. When topically treated with hydrocortisone, the exsudation of leucocytes was diminished and delayed and the cellular proliferation was reduced considerably in the challenged corneal stroma. A lower number of Candida organisms was found in the cornea when treatment with hydrocortisone was combined with the antifungal drug pimaricin. When treated with pimaricin only however, fungal growth and inflammation were least apparent.