Microbioma da Superfície Ocular: Bactérias, Vírus, Fungos e Prevenção de Infecções

The ocular surface hosts a low-biomass but distinct microbiome; disruption causes infection.

Resident/Transient Microorganisms

• Bacteria: Staphylococcus epidermidis (dominant commensal), S. aureus, Streptococcus spp., Corynebacterium, Propionibacterium. Pathogens: Pseudomonas, Haemophilus, Moraxella.
• Viruses: Herpes simplex (HSV-1), adenovirus (EKC), enterovirus 70 (AHC), SARS-CoV-2 (conjunctival tropism).
• Fungi: Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium (keratitis post-trauma/contact lens).

Transmission Routes

• Hand-to-eye (fomites, contaminated fingers)
• Contact lens misuse (overnight wear, tap water rinse, expired solution)
• Shared cosmetics, towels, eye drops
• Respiratory droplets (adenovirus, HSV)

Prevention

• Hand hygiene before eye contact.
• Proper contact lens care (rub/rinse, case replacement, no water exposure).
• Avoid sharing ocular products.
• Protective eyewear in high-risk settings.

Infection Signs

Redness, pain, photophobia, discharge, blurred vision → urgent ophthalmic evaluation. Delay risks corneal ulcer, perforation, vision loss.