Contact Solution Recall Lawyers

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

In order for treatment to be effective, diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis must be early. An eye specialist can diagnose the infection. Diagnosis will be based upon growth of the amoeba from a scraping of the eye or using confocal microscopy to visually see the amoeba.

Disseminated infection and Granulomatous Amebic Encephalitis (GAE) are more difficult to diagnose than Acanthamoeba keratitis and have often progressed to an advanced stage before they are discovered. To test for GAE, brain scans, spinal taps, and biopsies can be useful. Disseminated disease is best determined by a biopsy of the site.

Several prescription eye medicines are available for Acanthamoeba keratitis. However, the medicine is not always effective, and therefore treatment of every person must be specialized. It is important that you see an ophthalmologist immediately if you are suspicious, since treatment must be started immediately.

If the skin is infected but the infection has not reached the central nervous system, treatment is likely to be successful. However, Acanthamoeba keratitis is extremely serious and will often result in a weakened immune system. In general, cases of spinal cord and brain infection with Acanthamoeba, known as Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE), are fatal.

Disseminated infection and GAE are more difficult to diagnose than Acanthamoeba keratitis and have often progressed to an advanced stage before they are discovered. To test for GAE, brain scans, spinal taps, and biopsies can be useful. Disseminated disease is best determined by a biopsy of the site.

To reduce your risks of contracting the infection, you should visit the doctor for regular eye examinations and wear contact lenses as prescribed. Do not wear contacts while participating in water activities including showering and swimming. Wash your hands prior to handling the contacts and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when cleaning.

If you are suffering from Acanthamoeba keratitis due to defective contact lens solution, get in touch with the contact solution recall lawyers of Williams Kherkher to see if you are eligible for compensation by calling 1-800-220-9341.