Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but serious infection of the cornea caused by acanthamoeba, a free-living microorganism found in water and soil. It can lead to severe pain, inflammation, and scarring of the cornea.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
The infection is strongly associated with contact lens wear, particularly when lenses are exposed to tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, or homemade cleaning solutions. Symptoms include severe eye pain out of proportion to early findings, redness, blurred vision, tearing, and light sensitivity.
- Most cases occur in soft contact lens users
- Poor lens hygiene and water exposure are major risk factors
- Characteristic ring-shaped corneal infiltrates may develop
- Diagnosis can be challenging in the early stages
Management
Treatment involves intensive topical anti-amoebic medication over many weeks or months, sometimes combined with other antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory agents. In advanced cases with scarring or perforation, corneal transplantation may be considered.
- Early recognition improves the chance of preserving vision
- Contact lenses are discontinued immediately
- Regular follow-up is needed to adjust treatment and monitor response
- Preventive advice focuses on strict lens hygiene and avoiding water contact with lenses
