[Clinical features of epidemic nosocomial keratoconjunctivitis in 41 patients].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical features of nosocomial epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) occurring in the ophthalmology ward of Tokyo Medical University Hospital.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We studied the symptoms and clinical course of 41 patients who had EKC caused by nosocomial infections in our hospital. We attempted to detect adenovirus antigen and viral DNA from conjunctival swabs and also to isolate the virus.

RESULTS

The clinical symptoms of EKC, including postoperative cases, were not severe. In some cases, patients' complaints, for example, increase of lacrimation or appearance of a foreign body sensation, were contributory to diagnosis. Among the 41 patients, 31 out of 34 (91.2%) EKC patients who had undergone ophthalmic surgery had EKC in the operated eye. In cases receiving bilateral operations, EKC occurred first in the initially operated eye. The sensitivity of Adeno-check was 76.9%. Adenovirus type 19 was isolated from conjunctival swabs in 26 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The early diagnosis of EKC is extremely important to prevent the spread of nosocomial infections. Careful observation of operated eyes and close attention to patient complaints may aid in the early detection of EKC.