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Published on: May 12, 2020
[Nosocomial pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearer]
Claudia Grünauer-Kloevekorn1, Frank Wilhelm, Gernot I W Duncker
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde der Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg. Cup-gk@t-online.de
Background:
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common cause of bacterial-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearers, due to wrong use of soft contact lenses. Problems are often severe corneal ulcers and even corneal perforations. We report on a soft contact lens wearer with credibly correct use of soft contact lenses and nosocomial Pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis.
Case Report:
A 33-year old woman suffered from corneal ulcer and corneal infiltration with beginning endophthalmitis 2 days after having used of new soft contact lenses. After systemic and local antibiosis and penetrating keratoplasty we could stop endophthalmitis before reaching the vitreous and retina.
Results:
Histological and microbiological examinations showed a corneal ulcer with severe corneal infection due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa with resistance to mezlocillin and intermediale resistance to gentamicin. After therapy a stable situation with visual acuity of 20/60 was attained.
Conclusions:
Previous reports on Pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearers demonstrate corneal problems due to extended or overnight wear or unsuccessful contact lens cleaning. We present a case of nosocomial corneal infection after soft contact lens wearing and nosocomial infection because of contact with a partner working in an intensive-care unit. Hygienic rules should be strictly followed by patients and staff using soft or hard contact lenses for visual correction or for therapeutic reasons.
Insights
This case highlights nosocomial Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis in a soft contact lens wearer, even with correct lens use. Strict hygiene is crucial for all contact lens wearers to prevent severe eye infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a leading cause of bacterial keratitis in soft contact lens wearers, often linked to improper lens use.
- Improper contact lens use can lead to severe corneal ulcers and perforations.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old woman developed a corneal ulcer and infiltration with early endophthalmitis after using new soft contact lenses.
- The patient reported correct soft contact lens usage, suggesting an alternative infection source.
Findings:
- Histological and microbiological exams confirmed a severe corneal infection by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, resistant to mezlocillin and intermediately resistant to gentamicin.
- Treatment with systemic and local antibiotics, along with penetrating keratoplasty, halted endophthalmitis progression.
Implications:
- This case suggests nosocomial infection as a cause of Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis, even with proper contact lens hygiene.
- Contact with individuals in intensive care units may pose a risk for nosocomial infections in contact lens wearers.
- Strict adherence to hygiene protocols by patients and healthcare staff is essential for preventing serious contact lens-related eye infections.
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