AMO's lens solution linked to AK

A "strong association" has been discovered between use of AMO's Complete MoisturePlus Multi-Purpose Solution and an increased risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK).

Earlier this year, AMO voluntarily recalled the product and since then an investigation of 30 AK cases and 39 matched controls wearing soft contact lenses, found that those with AK infection were significantly more likely to have reported use of the AMO solution than those without the infection. The researchers, from the University of Illinois, Chicago, USA, found that users of the solution have a greater than 16-fold risk of developing AK.

The researchers, however, also made it clear that 39% of AK cases reported no use of AMO Complete MoisturePlus Multi-Purpose solution. Furthermore, the investigation also offered some evidence that re-using contact lens solution, rubbing lenses during cleaning and showering with lenses on also increases the risk of infection.

The FDA is concerned that, despite the solution being withdrawn from the market, consumers might still be using it. The governing body therefore urges soft contact lens wearers to throw away any partially used bottles.