Minimising the risk of prion transmission by contact tonometry. Issue 11 (10th November 2003)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Amin, S Z; Smith, L; Luthert, P J; Cheetham, M E; Buckley, R J
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 87:Issue 11(2003)
• Page Start: 1360
• Page End: 1362
• Publication Date: 2003-11-10
• Subjects: prion transmission by contact tonometry; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.87.11.1360
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: The unknown prevalence of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) in the UK population has led to fears of horizontal transmission through routine medical procedures. The potential risk of transmission via contact tonometry was examined. Methods: The total amount of protein carried over by tonometer tips after applanation of patients was assessed. Results: Tonometer tips had an inherent ability to carry proteinaceous material. There was a large variability in the load carried over between individual patients. Rinsing tonometer tips in water reduced protein carryover. Wiping the tonometer tips also reduced carriage, though less dramatically. Conclusion: There is a small theoretical risk of transmission of vCJD by contact tonometry through reuse, but this should be reduced if the prisms are washed and wiped. In the light of these findings a protocol for the management of reusable tonometer prisms is recommended.