[Nosocomial pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearer].

BACKGROUND

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common cause of bacterial-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearers, due to wrong use of soft contact lenses. Problems are often severe corneal ulcers and even corneal perforations. We report on a soft contact lens wearer with credibly correct use of soft contact lenses and nosocomial Pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis.

CASE REPORT

A 33-year old woman suffered from corneal ulcer and corneal infiltration with beginning endophthalmitis 2 days after having used of new soft contact lenses. After systemic and local antibiosis and penetrating keratoplasty we could stop endophthalmitis before reaching the vitreous and retina.

RESULTS

Histological and microbiological examinations showed a corneal ulcer with severe corneal infection due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa with resistance to mezlocillin and intermediale resistance to gentamicin. After therapy a stable situation with visual acuity of 20/60 was attained.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous reports on Pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated keratitis in soft contact lens wearers demonstrate corneal problems due to extended or overnight wear or unsuccessful contact lens cleaning. We present a case of nosocomial corneal infection after soft contact lens wearing and nosocomial infection because of contact with a partner working in an intensive-care unit. Hygienic rules should be strictly followed by patients and staff using soft or hard contact lenses for visual correction or for therapeutic reasons.