RESUMEN
The purpose of this review is to describe the biology of acanthamoeba, as well as the diagnosis and the treatment strategies of acanthamoeba keratitis. This infectious disease often occurs in contact lens wearers. The clinical features may not be specific. A final diagnosis is made on the basis of microscopic examination or culture, or by the identification of the presence of amoebic deoxyribonucleic acid by polymerase chain reaction. The latter shows high specificity and sensibility. Confocal microscopy may, in vivo, find cysts in the cornea. The medical treatment is started after taking tissue for diagnosis. A combination of topical agents that are cysticidal, usually biguianides and diamidines, is usually used during several weeks. The severity of disease at presentation and the interval between the onset of symptoms and effective therapy are the most important factors affecting prognosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy are keys to good final visual acuity