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Association of Pseudomonas and Serratia corneal ulcers with use of contaminated solutions
Abstract:
The wetting and soaking solutions and contact lens cases of eye clinic patients commonly were contaminated with gram-negative bacteria during their use. Serratia marcescens occurred most frequently in preserved solutions, whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most often recovered from home-prepared saline. The bacteria were recovered at densities of greater than 10(6) cells per ml and typically persisted in the solutions. Eight patients who developed bacterial keratitis during 1986 used solutions contaminated with the etiological agents of the infections. Improper hygienic practices of the patients and failure of some preservative systems were implicated in the development of the infections.
Insights
Contact lens solutions and cases are often contaminated with gram-negative bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This contamination, linked to poor hygiene and preservative failure, can lead to serious eye infections such as bacterial keratitis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Contact lens wear is associated with a risk of microbial keratitis.
- Contamination of contact lens care products is a known issue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbial contamination of contact lens solutions and cases.
- To identify the types of bacteria involved in contact lens-related infections.
- To determine factors contributing to these infections.
Main Methods:
- Sampling of wetting/soaking solutions and contact lens cases from patients.
- Microbiological culture and identification of bacterial contaminants.
- Clinical data review of patients with bacterial keratitis.
Main Results:
- Gram-negative bacteria frequently contaminated contact lens solutions and cases.
- Serratia marcescens was common in preserved solutions; Pseudomonas aeruginosa in home-prepared saline.
- High bacterial densities (>10^6 cells/ml) persisted in solutions.
- Eight patients with bacterial keratitis used contaminated solutions.
Conclusions:
- Improper patient hygiene and preservative system failures are implicated in contact lens-related bacterial keratitis.
- Contaminated solutions pose a significant risk for developing serious eye infections.
- Enhanced disinfection and patient education are crucial for preventing microbial keratitis.