Abstract: Tonometry tips are used by optometrists to measure intraocular pressures. The recommended procedure of soaking in bleach solution kills bacteria and certain virus such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Herpes Simplex Virus-1 and Herpes Simplex Virus-2, Adenovirus 8, and Hepatitis B from the tip (1). On the other hand , recommendations made in literature to sterilize equipment that may have come in contact with virus-contaminated tissue from patients with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease have a little tougher requirement. Autoclaving for one hour at a temperature of at least 1210 C (15 psi), or a one-hour exposure to 0.5 per cent sodium hypochlorite (a 10-fold dilution of household bleach) should provide excellent disinfection (2). One-hour exposure to 1 N Sodium hydroxide has also been mentioned in the literature (3). Studies have shown that cornea of guinea pigs with Cruetzfeldt-Jakob disease (C-J disease) is infectious (15). An epidemiological case-control study found statistically significant odds ratio for intraocular pressure testing in the medical history of patients with C-J disease (8,14). Many researchers have strongly suggested that C-J disease can be iatrogenically transmitted via applanation tonometry tips (8). A survey has been conducted among third year optometry students at Pennsylvania College of Optometry to understand their knowledge base on Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and its sterilization. Even though there have not been any proven studies confirming iatrogenic transmission through tonometry tips, optometrists should be cautious if a patient has C-J disease, or presents with symptoms of C-J disease and use alternatives to Goldmann applanation tonometry.
Learning Objectives: 1. During this session, faculty will recognize possibility of iatogenic transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease via tonomtery tips. 2. During this session, faculty will learn about alternatives to Goldmann tonometry in order to prevent iatrogenic transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Keywords: Pathogens,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.