Which organism is most commonly implicated in microbial keratitis among contact lens wearers?

Which organism is most commonly implicated in microbial keratitis among contact lens wearers?

• A. Staphylococcus aureus
• B. Haemophilus influenzae
• C. Streptococcus pneumoniae
• D. Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Answer: (D)

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the organism most commonly implicated in microbial keratitis among contact lens wearers. It thrives in moist environments and readily contaminates contact lenses and cases, especially soft lenses, forming biofilms that protect it from cleaning solutions and the eye’s defenses. This makes lens wearers particularly vulnerable when hygiene is poor, lenses are worn overnight, or lenses contact water. The resulting keratitis is often rapid and aggressive, with pain, redness, discharge, and potential corneal ulceration if not treated promptly. While other bacteria can cause keratitis, they are less commonly linked to contact lens–related infections, making Pseudomonas the standout culprit in this context.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the organism most commonly implicated in microbial keratitis among contact lens wearers. It thrives in moist environments and readily contaminates contact lenses and cases, especially soft lenses, forming biofilms that protect it from cleaning solutions and the eye’s defenses. This makes lens wearers particularly vulnerable when hygiene is poor, lenses are worn overnight, or lenses contact water. The resulting keratitis is often rapid and aggressive, with pain, redness, discharge, and potential corneal ulceration if not treated promptly. While other bacteria can cause keratitis, they are less commonly linked to contact lens–related infections, making Pseudomonas the standout culprit in this context.