CONTACT LENS WEARERS ON ALERT FOLLOWING UNEXPLAINED FUNGAL OUTBREAK

(AUSTIN, TEXAS) -- Bausch & Lomb's decision to permanently remove its ReNu with Moisture Loc contact lens solution from the market following an unexplained outbreak of a rare but serious fungal infection has left contact lens wearers wondering how to know whether they are safe.

"We know that contact lens wearers have been concerned since they learned about the fungal outbreak connected to ReNu with MoistureLoc," says Dr. Robert Rock, an ophthalmologist with Eye Physicians of Austin. "Most fungal infections are not as serious as the Fusarium keratitis outbreak linked to ReNu, but all infections should taken seriously and treated promptly."

Fusarium is a fungus commonly found in plant material and soil in tropical and subtropical regions. When transmitted to the eye, Fusarium keratitis can cause scarring and blindness. Prompt treatment with eye drops can prevent permanent damage. Corneal transplants may be necessary if the infection is not treated promptly.

A total of 122 cases of Fusarium keratitis were confirmed in the United States, most of them among users of ReNu with Moisture Loc. At least eight patients have required corneal transplants.

A federal investiation of Bausch & Lomb's factory in Greenville, South Carolina, found no "contamination, tampering, counterfeiting, or sterility failure" to account for the outbreak. Federal officials concluded that some aspect of the MoistureLoc formula accounts for the increased risk of infection. For example, the solution may lose disinfecting ability as it soaks into the lens and allow fungal growth.

Common symptoms of fungal infections include blurry vision, pain or redness, sensitivity to light, and discharge from the eye.

The most common other causes of fungal infections are Aspergillus, Nocardia, and some yeast such as candida.

"If you are a contact lens wearer and suspect you have a fungal infection consult the eye doctor who manages your contact lens fitting," recommends Dr. Rock. "The faster you seek treatment, the faster the problem can be resolved."

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