Frequently Asked Questions
General Information about Fusarium Keratitis
Released April 27, 2006
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Questions and Answers
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the front part of the eye. Keratitis has many causes including bacteria, viruses and fungi. CDC is currently investigating reports of keratitis caused by Fusarium, a type of fungus.
While Fusarium keratitis can be a serious infection, it is a rare disease. Fusarium is commonly found in organic matter such as soil and plants. This infection cannot be transmitted from person to person. People who have trauma to the eye, certain eye diseases and problems with their immune system may be at increased risk for these types of infection.
Is Fusarium keratitis due to a type of contact lens solution?
CDC is investigating the possible risk factors for developing Fusarium keratitis. Preliminary data show that a high proportion of cases reported using a Bausch & Lomb ReNu contact lens solution. On April 13, 2006, Bausch & Lomb announced that it was withdrawing all ReNu with MoistureLoc products and is recommending that consumers stop using ReNu with MoistureLoc immediately.
What is CDC doing about the reports of Fusarium keratitis?
CDC is working with state and local health departments, the US Food and Drug Administration, and the US Department of Agriculture to evaluate reports of Fusarium keratitis, conduct a study to determine factors associated with Fusarium keratitis, and conduct surveillance to determine the scope of the outbreak. In addition, CDC is partnering with FDA and the South Carolina Department of Health to do an on-site evaluation of Bausch & Lomb plant in Greenville, SC.
Results of the investigation will help identify measures that can be put into place to prevent further infections related to contact lens wear. Eye doctors treating patients for keratitis caused by fungi are urged to report these infections to their state health department to aid in this investigation.
How many cases have been reported so far?
As of April 27, 2006, CDC has received 228 reports of possible Fusarium keratitis. Of these, CDC and state/local health departments have identified 84 confirmed and possible cases; 98 remain under investigation and 46 have been excluded.
© 2006 MSNBC.com