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Penetrating keratoplasty in active Acanthamoeba keratitis

Truc H Nguyen1, Robert W Weisenthal, George J Florakis

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13202, USA. tnguyen709@gmail.com

Cornea
|June 4, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) offers a viable treatment for active Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) when medical therapies fail. This surgical approach led to rapid symptom resolution and improved vision in patients with severe infections.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe corneal infection.
  • Deep stromal infiltrates in AK often indicate a poor response to medical therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in managing active Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK).

Main Methods:

  • Nine patients with deep stromal AK infiltrates received intensive antiamoebic therapy.
  • Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) was performed during the acute infectious phase for non-responsive or non-compliant cases.
  • Antiamoebic medication was gradually reduced post-PK.

Main Results:

  • Post-PK visual acuity ranged from 20/15 to 20/50 after a mean follow-up of 17 months.
  • Patients experienced rapid symptom resolution.
  • No signs of Acanthamoeba keratitis recurrence were observed.

Conclusions:

  • Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) is a successful surgical option for active Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) refractory to maximal medical treatment.
  • PK can restore visual function and prevent disease progression in severe AK cases.

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