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The anophthalmic socket and the prosthetic eye. A clinical and bacteriologic study
1Department of Ophthalmology, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown 26506-6302.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Bacterial prevalence is higher in anophthalmic sockets, but symptoms aren't linked to flora. Frequent prosthesis manipulation increases gram-negative bacteria, so avoid touching your prosthetic eye.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Biomedical Science
Background:
- Anophthalmic sockets, often fitted with prosthetic eyes, can harbor bacterial growth.
- Understanding the microbial landscape is crucial for managing ocular health in these patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bacterial prevalence in anophthalmic sockets.
- To determine the relationship between bacterial flora, socket symptoms, and prosthesis manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Culture samples were collected from the conjunctiva of 40 anophthalmic socket patients using prosthetic eyes.
- Bacterial flora was analyzed and compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.
- Correlation between frequent prosthesis manipulation and specific bacterial types was assessed.
Main Results:
- An increased prevalence of bacteria was detected in the conjunctivae of anophthalmic sockets.
- No significant differences in bacterial flora were found between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.
- Patients frequently manipulating their prosthesis showed a higher proportion of gram-negative bacteria.
Conclusions:
- Ocular irritation symptoms in anophthalmic sockets are not typically associated with abnormal bacterial flora.
- Frequent manipulation of prosthetic eyes should be avoided to reduce the risk of gram-negative bacterial colonization.