Mark & Associates, P.C. Attorneys At Law

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba Keratitis is caused by Acanthamoeba castellani, a microscopic amoebae parasite that can be found in tap water, pools, hot tubs, lakes, seawater, hot springs, dust, soil, sewage systems, cooling towers, and HVAC systems.  Acanthamoeba Keratitis can cause cornea damage, cornea scarring, permanent vision loss and total blindness. Corneal transplant surgery is sometimes required.  People who practice sanitary contact lens care can get Acanthamoeba Keratitis.

Symptoms of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

• Pain in the eye
• Redness in the eye
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Tearing
• Feeling that something is in the eye
• Swelling of upper eyelid

Diagnosis of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba Keratitis can be difficult to diagnose because its early symptoms resemble symptoms of other less serious conditions.  It is also sometimes misdiagnosed as herpetic, fungal and bacterial keratitis. When misdiagnosed and treated for another condition, Acanthamoeba can encyst and become dormant, leaving the patient with fewer symptoms but without proper treatment. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by:

• Corneal culture from eye scraping (can produce false negatives)
• Confocal microscopy
• Corneal scraping and examination of cells under microscope

Treatment of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Prognosis of Acanthamoeba Keratitis depends upon how deep into the cornea the infection penetrates.  Acanthamoeba cysts may be resistant to therapy, so physicians often use a combination of medications. Medical treatment includes antibiotics, antifungals and steroids.  Newer therapies are not readily available, and as a result, a combination of topical biguanide and diamidine is commonly prescribed. If there is corneal scarring, corneal transplantation may be necessary. Even when the infection is diagnosed early and treated properly, there may be loss of vision and the need for surgical treatment.  

Legal Help for Acanthamoeba Keratitis Victims

AMO Complete MoisturePlus Multi Purpose Solution was recalled on May 25, 2007 due to reports of increased risk of Acanthamoeba Keratitis among users of the contact lens solution.  To determine whether you have an Acanthamoeba Keratitis case, please contact us today by filling out our online form or by calling 1-866-50-RIGHTS (1-866-507-4448).