An article in the April issue of Optometry Times discusses the FDA’s reaction to the increasing number of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) cases. The article states, “In March 2007, a Center for Disease Control (CDC) investigation linked many cases to the use of a multipurpose cleaning solution (Complete MoisturePlus, now discontinued), then manufactured by Advanced Medical Optics Inc. (AMO). As of May 24, 2007, 138 cases of AK had been reported to the CDC from 35 states and Puerto Rico. At least nine patients required corneal transplants.

CDC researchers found that the AMO solution did not kill the Acanthamoeba parasite. That finding, coupled with the 2006 outbreak of Fusarium keratitis associated with the use of a now-discontinued contact lens (CL) cleaning solution (ReNu with MoistureLoc, Bausch & Lomb) has led eye-care specialists to be especially concerned about testing protocols.”

Right now the FDA does not require CL solutions to kill Acantamoeba. Do you think this will change? Do you think the FDA is dealing with this in the right way? How do you think the CL solutions can be made more effective in preventing infection?