Study recommends keratitis management changes

A retrospective analysis of the outcomes of contact lens-associated keratitis (Clak) has recommended modifications to current management protocols in order to relieve the burden on the healthcare service.

The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, referenced current UK management protocols necessitating reviews of every patient within 48 hours, regardless of severity, which it said increased the treatment burden.

Using patient records from 2021-2022, the researchers categorised 161 eyes from 153 patients and graded them from one to three, based on epithelial defect size, before analysing risk factors, clinical features, treatments and outcomes.

Extended-wear contact lenses, poor hygiene and prolonged duration of wear were found to be the most significant risk factors for Clak. The researchers also concluded that, while grade three Claks required longer-term diagnostics and treatment, grades one and two could be discharged with the appropriate treatment, thereby reducing unnecessary patient visits and optimising resources.