Orthokeratology associated microbial keratitis.

PURPOSE: To report the clinical course, microbiologic findings, treatment, and outcomes of overnight orthokeratology associated microbial keratitis.

METHODS

Four cases of overnight orthokeratology associated microbial keratitis are reported.

RESULTS

Four patients aged 14-23 years (mean 18 years) who had central or paracentral corneal ulcers were included. Visual acuity at presentation ranged from 20/30 to hand motion. In all cases Pseudomonas aeruginosa was cultured from corneal scrapings or storage solution. In all patients the infection resolved with intensive topical antimicrobial treatment. Final best-corrected visual acuity ranged from 20/25 to 20/200 according to the location, size, and density of the corneal scar, which complicated all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Infectious keratitis is a significant, visual threatening complication of overnight orthokeratology. Eye care practitioners should be aware of this complication and educate their patients of the importance of lens hygiene and prompt medical care when symptoms or signs of keratitis appear.