[A case of free-living Amoebae keratitis in a non contact lens wearer]

Ann Biol Clin (Paris). 2005 Sep-Oct;63(5):531-4.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Free living amoebae keratitis is a rare but severe infection due to ubiquitous protozoa of the genus Acanthamoeba. Most cases occur in contact lens wearers. In the present paper, we report a case of Acanthamoeba keratitis secondary to a vegetal injury of the cornea in a patient who did not wear contact lens. This case emphasizes the fact that the visual outcome is dependent on early treatment and outlines the need for a rapid diagnosis of amoebic keratitis. The diagnosis is based essentially on culture of trophozoïtes and cysts of the parasite from a corneal scrape or a biopsy specimen. The treatment is long, difficult and often a failure. Successful management of amoebic keratitis infection thus requires constant dialogue between the physician and the clinical microbiologist, a quality sample and efficient laboratory tests.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acanthamoeba / isolation & purification
  • Acanthamoeba Keratitis / diagnosis*
  • Acanthamoeba Keratitis / etiology
  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Contact Lenses
  • Humans
  • Male