Contact lens-related microbial keratitis: recent outbreaks

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Conjunctival Commensal Isolation and Identification in Mice
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Avni Patel1, Kristin Hammersmith

  • 1Wills Eye, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.

Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
|June 12, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Atypical contact lens infections, including Acanthamoeba and Fusarium keratitis, are increasing. Specific contact lens solutions have been linked to these outbreaks, highlighting the need for improved antimicrobial efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Atypical microbial keratitis associated with contact lens wear has emerged as a significant clinical concern.
  • Recent years have seen a notable rise in specific types of contact lens-related infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the scientific literature published since 2005 concerning atypical contact lens-related infections.
  • To investigate the association between these infections and specific contact lens solutions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies published from 2005 onwards.
  • Analysis of reported cases of atypical keratitis and implicated contact lens solutions.

Main Results:

  • An increase in atypical soft contact lens-related infections, particularly Acanthamoeba keratitis and Fusarium keratitis, has been observed.
  • Specific contact lens solutions, such as AMO Complete MoisturePlus and ReNu with MoistureLoc, were associated with outbreaks.
  • Current contact lens solutions demonstrate greater efficacy against bacteria than against fungi or Acanthamoeba.
  • Multipurpose and no-rub solutions may exhibit reduced antimicrobial activity and lower effectiveness in real-world usage.

Conclusions:

  • Epidemic increases in Acanthamoeba and fungal keratitis are linked to particular contact lens solutions.
  • Further research into these atypical pathogens is warranted.
  • Emphasis should shift towards the antimicrobial efficacy of contact lens solutions over convenience-focused formulations.

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