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Establishing a Porcine Ex Vivo Cornea Model for Studying Drug Treatments against Bacterial Keratitis
Published on: May 12, 2020
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Medication Burden for Patients With Bacterial Keratitis
Dena Ballouz1, Nenita Maganti1,2, Megan Tuohy1
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, W. K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Cornea
|July 6, 2019
Summary
Older patients and those with positive bacterial keratitis (BK) cultures face higher medication burdens. Understanding this treatment cost and usage is crucial for patient compliance.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacoeconomics
Background:
- Bacterial keratitis (BK) is a serious eye infection requiring intensive treatment.
- Understanding the medication burden and associated costs is vital for patient management and adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze medication use and patient burden in the treatment of bacterial keratitis (BK).
- To identify factors associated with increased medication use and treatment duration in BK patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of adult BK patients in an academic cornea practice.
- Collected data on medications, dosing, clinical encounters, and estimated medication costs.
- Linear regression analysis to assess associations between medication use, patient demographics, and culture results.
Main Results:
- Median treatment duration was 54 days, involving 5 unique medications and costing $933.
- Positive bacterial growth correlated with more visits, longer treatment, more medications, and higher doses.
- Older age was associated with increased medication drops prescribed.
Conclusions:
- Older patients and those with positive cultures experience a greater medication burden.
- Awareness of medication usage and cost is essential for healthcare providers to ensure patient compliance with BK treatment.
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