Acanthamoeba keratitis in rigid lens wearers: The issue of tap water rinses

Abstract

Although Acanthamoeba keratis was originally reported as an infection occuring in gel lens wearers, particularly those who wore their lenses for an extended period of time, 2,3,9 it has now become apparent that wearers of rigid lenses are also susceptible to this disease. 1.5–7 Without adequate control of the masking techniques, it is imossible to determine the exact potential risk of chance inoculation or even knowing whether Actanthameoba is present upon lens insertion. However, enough scientific data exist to make it prudent to discontinue tap water rinses after the disinfection process is completed in order to reduce the chances of this iatrogenic contact lens-induced disaster. Unfortunately, tap water rinses with rigid lens wearers have always been the dogma, but it would seem wise to closely follow the guidelines elucidated in this article as well as other reports 1,2,9 since this pathogen is extremely refractory and often relentless in its progression. Again, prevention should always be an intergral part of management with every contact lens patient.