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Microbial contamination of contact lens cases among medical students
J Midelfart1, A Midelfart, L Bevanger
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Trondheim, Norway.
Purpose:
We performed a systematic examination of the rate and level of contamination of contact lens cases in a population of asymptomatic contact lens wearers using commercially prepared chemical disinfection solutions.
Methods:
Solutions from the lens cases and from the conjunctiva of 21 asymptomatic contact lens wearers were examined.
Results:
Contamination was found in five (24%) of the lens cases; four of the isolated microorganisms were recognized as potential ocular pathogens, namely Xanthomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas cepacia, Serratia liquefaciens, and Serratia plymuthica. Serratia organisms have not been previously isolated from lens care solutions preserved with guanide, and, in addition, this was the first time that Serratia plymuthica has been isolated from a lens care system. Acanthamoeba was not detected in any of the examined samples, and no potential pathogens were isolated from the conjunctiva. Among students having contaminated lens cases, all reported problems such as itching, redness, dryness, and coating of the lens.
Conclusions:
The percentage of contaminated lens cases in this study was lower than in other studies. However, since the microorganisms identified in 80% of the contaminated lens cases were considered potential ocular pathogens, we feel contact lens wearers should be encouraged to frequently replace their lens cases.
Insights
Twenty-four percent of contact lens cases showed contamination with potential ocular pathogens. Frequent replacement of contact lens cases is recommended to minimize risks associated with contact lens wear.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Contact lens wear is common, and proper hygiene is crucial for preventing eye infections.
- Contamination of contact lens cases can harbor microorganisms, posing a risk to ocular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically examine the rate and level of contamination in contact lens cases.
- To identify microorganisms present in lens cases and on the conjunctiva of asymptomatic contact lens wearers.
Main Methods:
- Collection and microbiological examination of solutions from contact lens cases.
- Sampling of the conjunctiva from 21 asymptomatic contact lens wearers.
- Identification of isolated microorganisms, including potential ocular pathogens.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four percent (5/21) of contact lens cases were contaminated.
- Four potential ocular pathogens were identified: Xanthomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas cepacia, Serratia liquefaciens, and Serratia plymuthica.
- No Acanthamoeba or pathogens were found on the conjunctiva; however, contaminated lens cases were associated with symptoms like itching and redness.
Conclusions:
- Despite a lower contamination rate than some studies, the presence of potential ocular pathogens in 80% of contaminated cases is concerning.
- Contact lens wearers should be advised to replace their lens cases frequently to reduce the risk of microbial contamination and subsequent eye infections.