Analysis of fungal contamination in contact lens storage cases between 2000 and 2012

Abstract

AbstractPurpose The objective of this study was to identify fungi species isolated in contact lenses boxes from January 2000 to November 2012 and to compare with fungi species found in corneal samples over the same period.Methods Retrospective study from January 2000 to November 2012. Over the same period, were analyzed isolates from 68 patients with clinical signs of keratomycosis confirmed by corneal samples culture. The temporal analysis (over the last 12 years) of the isolates was performed using the chi2 test pattern.Results 456/2433 contact lenses boxes fungi (18.7%). Non‐filamentous fungi (yeasts) were isolated in 280 boxes (61.3%), including 85% of Candida (46% Candida parapsilosis) and 15% of other non‐filamentous fungi. Filamentous fungi were isolated in 200 boxes (43.8%): Fusarium sp. (46.5%), Penicillium (23%), Aspergillus (12%)other filamentous fungi (18.5%). Fusarium sp. were isolated in 51.4% of patients with clinical signs of keratomycosis. A significant increase in filamentous fungi (chi2 = 6.4 p <0.05) could be highlighted in contact lens boxes. Increase in Fusarium sp. in contact lens boxes is significant(chi2 = 17.5 p <0.05) as the number of Fusarium sp. keratomycosis (chi2 = 6.2 p <.05). Contact lens wear remains the main risk factor for keratomycosis (54% of patients).Conclusion Increasing cases of Fusarium sp. kératomycosis must be considered in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.