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Author Spotlight: Studying Behavior of Acanthamoeba to Develop Targeted Strategies for Preventing Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Published on: September 20, 2024
Natural Honey-Induced Acanthamoeba keratitis
Alireza Peyman1, Mohsen Pourazizi1, Mohammadreza Peyman2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Isfahan Eye Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Abstract:
Natural honey in spite of its usefulness is known to contain certain microorganisms. In the present study, we describe a case of Acanthamoeba keratitis after using topical honey administered by a traditional medicine therapist. A 32-year-old male came with red eye and blurred vision. The pain and other symptoms became more severe after the 1st week, with appearance of radial perineuritis at the cornea. A repeated interview revealed that 1 week before appearance of ocular symptoms, the patient had instilled a drop of natural honey in his left eye. Confocal microscopic cornea imaging demonstrated cyst and trophozoite of Acanthamoeba in the corneal stroma.
Insights
A case of Acanthamoeba keratitis occurred after a patient used topical natural honey. This highlights the risk of microbial contamination in traditional eye treatments, even with beneficial substances like honey.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Natural honey possesses antimicrobial properties but can harbor microorganisms.
- Topical ocular applications of natural products carry inherent risks.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis is a serious eye infection often linked to contaminated water or contact lens solutions.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old male presented with severe red eye and blurred vision.
- Symptoms worsened, with radial perineuritis developing in the cornea.
- The patient reported using natural honey in his eye a week prior.
Findings:
- Confocal microscopy confirmed the presence of Acanthamoeba cysts and trophozoites in the corneal stroma.
- The infection was linked to the topical application of natural honey.
- This case highlights a novel route of Acanthamoeba transmission to the eye.
Implications:
- Natural honey, despite its benefits, may pose a risk for microbial eye infections.
- Healthcare providers should inquire about all topical eye treatments, including traditional remedies.
- This case underscores the importance of sterile practices in all forms of ocular therapy.
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