Another Contact Lens Solution in Hot Water
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: contact lens, eye infection, Complete Moisture Plus, health and wellness
3 Comments:
I'm very dismayed because I have used this product for 2 months and was able to purchase it at Drug Warehouse in Tulsa on June 16th! Only reason I knew anything was wrong was I developed red raw streaks on my face where the solution had run. Where was the publicity?
I am a recipient ( cannot think of the right word to describe this condition) of acanthamoemba which first manifested itself in Jan 07 and despite biopsies was finally id'd in May! What I want to know now is what solution IS safe to use in my only sighted eye? Life has virtually gone "on hold" for all of 2007 and I would urge anyone with ongoing symptoms to get urgent attention. The % of sufferers that have used AMO recalled product is alarming to say the least. Beware lens wearers and do keep a watch on this agonizing problem please. Ann New Zealand
My grandaughter was using this solution on the advice of her doctor. She was diagnosed with this infection and as a result may have to have a cornea transplant.
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