Acanthamoeba Keratitis
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Posted by Judy Arbique Jun 18, 2007 |
In cooperation with the Illinois Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control is investigating an increase in the number of cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Preliminary data from a retrospective survey of 22 ophthalmology centers in the U.S., which began in January 2007, indicated an increase in the number of Acanthamoeba keratitis cases over the past eight years. As of May 24, 2007, 138 cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis have been reported since January 1, 2005, from 35 different states and Puerto Rico.
Clinical information obtained from 37 of these AK cases indicated treatment failure for 9 of the patients (24%), and the need for corneal transplantation.
Analysis of the data collected also indicated a strong association between Acanthamoeba keratitis in soft contact lens wearers and the use of a commercial cleaning solution. Preliminary data analysis involving 46 of the AK cases showed that 39 (85%) of those infected wore soft contact lenses.
The manufacturer has initiated a voluntary recall of AMO Complete® MoisturePlus following release of the preliminary data analysis.
Are you one of the 30 million persons in the United States who wears soft contact lenses?
For information on contact care and Acanthamoeba keratitis:
Contact Care: Prevention of Infection and Eye Injury
Source:
Acanthamoeba Keratitis (AK) Case Information
