Effectivity of contact lens disinfection systems against Acanthamoeba culbertsoni

Thirteen commercially available contact lens solutions were tested for their ability to kill the cysts of Acanthamoeba culbertsoni. Miraflow, which contains 20% isopropyl alcohol, was the most effective at killing the cyst (94%), followed by solutions containing thimerosal (89%). The rigid gas permeable lens solutions in general were more effective than soft lens solutions. None of the solutions tested were completely cidal, but our data do suggest a combination of a good daily cleaner and disinfecting solution may be effective in reducing acanthamoeba exposure. These findings should provide guidelines for the practitioner in selecting the best disinfection system for the contact lens patient.