Resumen

ABENTE, Sonia et al. Status of the diagnosis of Amebic Keratitis in Paraguay. Rev. salud publica Parag. [online]. 2019, vol.9, n.2, pp.58-65. ISSN 2307-3349.  https://doi.org/10.18004/rspp.2019.diciembre.58-65.

Free-living amoeba (FLA) exist widely in nature, where the genus Acanthamoeba is the most frequently isolated in various environments of soil, air and water. It is associated with diseases in human. Its ability to live in adverse environments is due to the low food demand and that in its biological cycle it has a cyst-shaped stage, which makes it very resistant. Man, as a host, can acquire infections in the central nervous system and in the skin and lungs. On the ocular level, it can affect the cornea and cause keratitis. Therefore, it is considered an important etiological agent of human pathologies. This review addresses the biology, pathogenesis and human defense mechanisms against Acanthamoeba infection. In addition to this, the review explores the risk factors related to the use of contact lenses and poor hygienic behavior of the users, and finally the microbiological and molecular diagnosis. This particular tool has been improved with the advancement of technology and is essential for timely identification and the achievement of a good clinical and therapeutic intervention. Finally, we present the current situation in Paraguay regarding the few existing clinical reports and the diagnostic methods available.

Palabras clave : Acanthamoeba sp.; Contact lenses; Keratitis..

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