[An epidemic of pseudomonas keratitis due to permanent-wear contact lenses (author's transl)]
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Abstract:
In 1977 thirty-three patients (35 eyes) with permanent-wear contact lenses presented with keratitis in varying degrees of severity. Among the nine cases investigated bacteriologically (including some contact lenses) three showed no organisms, while six were found to have pseudomonas aeruginosa. The contact lenses all came from the same optician, where shortly beforehand the patients had had their lenses either replaced or checked. The inspection of the optical establishment revealed faultless application of steril technique. Nevertheless it must be assumed that contamination of the lenses had had occurred there.
Insights
Permanent-wear contact lens wearers developed keratitis, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa identified in six of nine cases. Contamination likely occurred at the optician despite sterile techniques, highlighting risks associated with contact lens care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Contact Lens Technology
Background:
- Permanent-wear contact lenses offer convenience but may pose infection risks.
- Keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea, can be a serious complication of contact lens wear.
- Bacterial contamination is a known cause of contact lens-related keratitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbiological causes of keratitis in patients wearing permanent-wear contact lenses.
- To identify the source of bacterial contamination in affected contact lenses.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation of 33 patients (35 eyes) with permanent-wear contact lens-associated keratitis was recorded.
- Bacteriological investigation of nine affected patients and their contact lenses was performed.
- The optical establishment where lenses were serviced was inspected for sterile technique compliance.
Main Results:
- Six out of nine investigated cases (66.7%) yielded Pseudomonas aeruginosa from corneal scrapings or contact lenses.
- Three cases showed no bacterial growth.
- Despite a faultless inspection of the optician's sterile techniques, contamination was presumed to have occurred there.
Conclusions:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant pathogen in permanent-wear contact lens-related keratitis.
- Contamination of contact lenses, even when sterile techniques appear adequate, can lead to severe ocular infections.
- Enhanced vigilance in contact lens handling and disinfection protocols is crucial for preventing keratitis.