WebMD Blogs
Icon

Eye On Vision

Dr. Lloyd's blog has now been retired. We appreciate all the wisdom and support Dr. Lloyd has brought to the WebMD community throughout the years. Continue to get the latest information about vision by visiting the Eye Health Center. Talk with others about vision on the Eye & Vision Health: Member Discussion message board.

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Another Contact Lens Solution in Hot Water
AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Take a peek in your medicine cabinet. Do you have any packages that look like this?

For the second time in less than a year a leading contact lens solution is being recalled because serious eye infections have occurred among consumers.

The latest contact lens solution under suspicion is Complete Moisture Plus manufactured by Advanced Medical Optics. You can read AMO's statement to its customers. An outbreak of corneal infections due to an unexpected germ was originally noted in the Chicago area. Most of the affected patients used this product.

Whereas the previous recall involved a fungus (remember Fusarium?) this time eye specialists are worried about a parasite, a specific protozoa called Acanthamoeba. This is a very challenging organism to diagnose and to treat. In the laboratory it can be very difficult to isolate, unlike ordinary bacteria like Pseudomonas (a frequent cause of contact lens-related corneal ulcers). This bug typically infests the clear cornea, so the presence of the contact lens makes for a convenient incubator. Acanthamoeba lives in fresh water, nonchlorinated water. Believe it or not, one of the oldest and most helpful antimicrobial treatments is medical grade swimming pool cleaner. See? Necessity is the Mother of Invention!

AMO and the CDC suggest that Complete Moisture Plus itself is probably not contaminated but something may be wrong with its formulation. This lens solution may offer little protection from accidental contamination from an environmental source (read 'dirty fingers').

So, here we go again. In order to protect yourself from accidental Acanthamoeba exposure that could lead to a painful, disabling corneal ulcer, authorities suggest users of Complete Moisture Plus discard all open containers of the product and return unused packages. Affected customers can call AMO at 1-888-899-9183 for specific details. Go ahead and toss any used contact lenses and contact lens storage cases that came in contact with the product. If you experience any redness, eye discomfort, or change in vision see your eye doctor immediately and be sure to alert the provider that you were using Complete Moisture Plus.

We will follow this story and follow-up with you as new information becomes available.

Related Topics: Technorati Tags: , , ,

Posted by: Dr. Lloyd at 10:33 AM

Email This EMail This Discussion Discuss with others Link Link to this post

The opinions expressed in the WebMD Blogs are of the author and the author alone. They do not reflect the opinions of WebMD and they have not been reviewed by a WebMD physician or any member of the WebMD editorial staff for accuracy, balance or objectivity. WebMD Blogs are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your physician or other qualified health provider because of something you have read on WebMD. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service or treatment. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 immediately.