A randomised clinical trial comparing 2% econazole and 5% natamycin for the treatment of fungal keratitis.

AIM To compare 2% econazole and 5% natamycin in the management of fungal keratitis. METHODS A randomised clinical trial was performed using 2% econazole or 5% natamycin as the two treatment arms on patients presenting with culture positive fungal keratitis to the cornea service at Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, India. RESULTS 116 patients were recruited, and 112 continued in the study. There were no significant differences between the two arms at baseline or for success (defined as a healed or healing ulcer) at final visit (p = 0.79). CONCLUSIONS 2% Econazole appears to be as effective as 5% natamycin for the management of fungal keratitis.