Infectious keratitis in the Midwest region of Santa Catarina (2013–2024): etiological distribution and predisposing factors

Keratitis ranks among the leading global causes of reduced visual acuity and reversible blindness, affecting patients across all age groups. This study analyzed the etiological profile of infectious keratitis diagnosed at an ophthalmological center in the Midwest region of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Through an 11-year retrospective analysis, 25 samples processed under a rigorous microbiological protocol were evaluated. Culture positivity was observed in 17 (68%) samples. Bacterial etiology predominated in 13 (76.5%) samples, with a higher prevalence of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS). Fungal and mixed etiologies each accounted for 2 (11.8%) cases. Regarding the sociodemographic profile, 15 (60%) affected individuals were male, predominantly agricultural workers, with a mean age of 58 years. Agricultural activity was the primary occupation, correlating with the main predisposing factors: ocular trauma and prior surgical interventions. The identified scenario indicates a bacterial profile strongly associated with the occupational context of the region, reinforcing the need for preventive actions focused on ocular health among rural workers.