THE CONTINUING PROBLEM OF ACANTHAMOEBA KERATITIS

The problem of acanthamoeba keratitis continues in most Western societies. Although it is a relatively rare infection it still results in significant visual loss in up to 15% of patients affected. It is well known that acanthamoeba keratitis is primarily associated with contact lens wear. Previous studies have documented that risk factors predisposing to acanthamoeba keratitis in contact lens wearers include non-sterile contact lens solutions, swimming in contact lenses, and inadequate disinfection. Radford and coworkers report on the British ophthalmic surveillance unit reporting system. Their findings reinforce previous studies concerning the problems of swimming in contact lenses, irregular disinfection of contact lenses, and inadequate sterilisation especially with the one step hydrogen peroxide and chloride release systems. In addition, they identify a risk factor not previously documented. The risk of acanthamoeba keratitis in this study was much greater in the southern region of England and …