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Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) has recalled its Complete MoisturePlus multipurpose contact lens solution after it was linked by the US Centers for Diseases Control Presentation (CDC) to a serious outbreak of corneal infections.

The CDC interviewed 46 patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and found that of the 39 who wore soft contact lenses, 21 used Complete MoisturePlus. The agency estimated that risk of infection was at least seven times greater for those who used Complete MoisturePlus solution than those who did not.

In a statement, AMO said: 'While AMO continues to work with the CDC and the US Food and Drug Administration to further assess the data, it is acting with an abundance of caution to voluntarily recall Complete MoisturePlus from the market.

'There is no evidence to suggest that the voluntary recall is related to a product contamination issue and this does not impact any of AMO's other contact lens care products.'

The company statement went on to add: 'Contact lens wearers should consult with their eye doctor if they have any of the following symptoms: eye pain, eye redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, sensation of something in the eye and excessive tearing. The symptoms, which can last several weeks to months, are not the same for everybody.

'Early in the infection, the symptoms of AK can be very similar to the symptoms of other common eye infections, but AK may eventually cause severe pain and possible vision loss with some patients requiring a corneal transplant.'

An AMO UK spokeswoman reiterated the fact that the worldwide recall was a 'purely precautionary' measure until further evidence could be collated. She told Optician: 'The safety of our customers is of paramount importance and therefore we have recalled the product until we have more information. There is no proven evidence that this is a contamination issue.'

As Optician went to press, AMO shares fell marginally on the news of the recall.

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