How does one get Fusarium keratitis?
Under ordinary circumstances, Fusarium infections are rare and are triggered by a variety of causes, including trauma (especially when plant material gets into the eye), immune system problems, chronic disease of the surface of the eye, and, as now exposed, by wearing contact lenses. The infection is not transmitted from person to person, however.
In mid-2005, an unusual increase in Fusarium keratitis cases among contact lens wearers was observed first in Asia, and then spread worldwide. The cause of the upsurge has been linked to using a Bausch & Lomb lens solution called ReNu with MoistureLoc. The company has since withdrawn the product from the market worldwide, with a consumer recommendation to stop using it immediately.
In mid-2005, an unusual increase in Fusarium keratitis cases among contact lens wearers was observed first in Asia, and then spread worldwide. The cause of the upsurge has been linked to using a Bausch & Lomb lens solution called ReNu with MoistureLoc. The company has since withdrawn the product from the market worldwide, with a consumer recommendation to stop using it immediately.
Other Renu FAQs
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Q:
What is Fusarium keratitis?
A: Fusarium keratitis is a serious fungal infection of the cornea; the clear, round dome that covers the iris and pupil of the eye. It can cause serious and permanent … More -
Q:
How can I tell if I have Fusarium keratitis?
A: You probably can’t. Even your eye doctor will probably have some difficulty in diagnosing it without laboratory tests. More -
Q:
What are the symptoms of Fusarium keratitis?
A: While the symptoms may vary from one person to another, they usually include: • Sudden blurry vision • Unusual redness of the eye • Pain … More -
Q:
How many cases of Fusarium keratitis have been reported since the outbreak began?
A: As of May 9, 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had received reports of 106 confirmed cases. Cases have been confirmed in Arkansas, Arizona, … More -
Q:
What is the proper treatment for Fusarium keratitis?
A: Typically, the infection is treated with topical and oral antifungal medications, but it is not successful with all patients. Sometimes eye surgery is required, and … More -
Q:
What is the proper treatment for Fusarium keratitis?
A: Typically, the infection is treated with topical and oral antifungal medications, but it is not successful with all patients. Sometimes eye surgery is required, and … More -
Q:
How can fungal keratitis infections be prevented?
A: The risk of infection can be substantially reduced by safe handling, storage and cleaning of contact lenses and, of course, by avoiding the use of ReNu with … More -
Q:
I think I have an eye infection. What should I do?
A: If you think you have an eye infection, you should schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist immediately. If you do have Fusarium keratitis, early diagnosis and … More -
Q:
What financial compensation can I recover in a pharmaceutical product liability claim?
A: Those injured by unsafe products are ordinarily entitled to recover monetary damages for all losses and expenses suffered from use of the product. Depending upon the … More -
Q:
What is pharmaceutical product liability?
A: Product liability is a legal term used to describe a special duty the law imposes on all manufacturers, including pharmaceutical companies. A person injured by some … More