Unilateral acanthamoeba keratitis following the use of cosmetic contact lens

ABSTRACT

Colored lenses were first designed for patients with eye pathologies, such as aniridia or corneal opacity. However, in recent years they have become readily available over-the-counter as cosmetic accessories. Widespread use of these lenses has been noted among young adults. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare cause of corneal infection, which is associated with poor visual prognosis. Over the past ten years, improvements in the management of this infection have been documented, yet the best treatment is still primary prevention. Hence, contact lens wearers must be provided with proper instructions regarding contact lens hygiene. We present a case of unilateral Acanthamoeba keratitis in a cosmetic contact lens wearer who presented with a month history of right eye pain, photophobia, redness and blurred vision. The contact lenses were obtained over the counter, and a history of poor contact lens hygiene was found. The patient was started on empirical treatment initially. The treatment was modified once the diagnosis was confirmed via Giemsa Stain of corneal scrapings, which showed Acanthamoeba cysts. The patient improved markedly and was discharged from the hospital. The disease classically has a slowly progressive, chronic course, with frequent remission periods. Our patient was lost to follow-up due to poor compliance and failure to adhere to guidelines