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The clinical experience of Acanthamoeba keratitis at a tertiary care eye hospital

Tasha Tanhehco1, Kathryn Colby

  • 1The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114, USA.

Cornea
|June 12, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) cases increased significantly, with soft contact lens wear and contaminated water exposure as key risk factors. Many cases required surgery due to resistance to medical treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) outbreaks are a growing global concern.
  • Understanding clinical trends and risk factors is crucial for managing this sight-threatening infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the clinical experience and outcomes of Acanthamoeba keratitis at a major eye care center.
  • To identify trends and risk factors associated with AK cases over a defined period.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of infectious keratitis cases with positive Acanthamoeba cultures from 2000-2008.
  • Analysis of clinical characteristics and visual outcomes for patients with over 6 months of follow-up.

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in AK cases was observed from 2004-2008 compared to 2000-2003.
  • Soft contact lens wear (12/15) and freshwater/saltwater exposure (8/15) were primary risk factors.
  • Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty was necessary in 8 of 15 cases due to treatment resistance.

Conclusions:

  • The incidence of AK has risen, highlighting the need for heightened clinical awareness.
  • Contact lens use and exposure to contaminated water are significant risk factors for AK.
  • Clinicians should suspect AK in atypical keratitis cases with identified risk factors.

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