Clinical Use
Detection of Acanthamoeba
Background
Acanthamoeba species can cause severe keratitis, usually in contact lens wearers or after ocular trauma. If not treated promptly, it may lead to corneal ulceration, and eventually to blindness. These protozoa may be isolated from corneal scrapings, as well as from contact lenses and storage cases. However, Acanthamoeba species may be isolated from contact lens fluid from individuals with no signs or symptoms of disease. PCR is becoming the tool of choice for diagnosis.
Patient preperation
- Use aseptic technique.
- Collect specimens in appropriate CE marked leak proof containers and transport in sealed plastic bags.
- Collect swabs into appropriate transport medium and transport in sealed plastic bags.
- Compliance with postal, transport and storage regulations is essential
Specimen requirements
Clinical specimens: eye swabs; biopsy material; contact lens/fluid/case/cleaning fluid; or CSF in meningitis cases.
Scalpel blades will NOT be accepted and will be rejected.
Limitations & Restrictions
Superficial swabs, although not ideal, may be all that is available. Deep-seated samples is available should be sought.
Turnaround time
2 working days
Analysing Laboratory
Micropathology Ltd, Venture Centre, University of Warwick Science Park, Sir William Lyons Road, Coventry, CV4 7EZ
Additional information
All laboratory work carried out at Micropathology Ltd is UKAS accredited.