[Adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis acquired in an ophthalmology clinic].

INTRODUCTION

Eye infection is a common cause of ophthalmologic consultation. Adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis outbreaks are common worldwide but its impact and clinical characteristic in Chilean population is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a series of adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis cases.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

The Index case and contacts received medical care in the Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile between April and August 2006. A complete ophthalmologic exam and microbiologic evaluation was performed.

RESULTS

Nine patients presented a pattern of characteristic epidemic keratoconjunctivitis. In x cases sub-corneal epithelial infiltrates were observed for a period of more than six months. Three affected patients were ophthalmologists, staff at the Hospital. In seven patients ADV was isolated all belonging to type D genus.

CONCLUSIONS

Adenovirus type D caused epidemic keratoconjunctivitis in a series of Chilean individuals. Ophthalmologist may have transmitted the virus to patients.