UF ophthalmologist discusses contact lens-related infections at national meeting

A University of Florida College of Medicine ophthalmologist recently shared the latest information about contact lens-related corneal infections as an invited lecturer at the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s annual meeting.

Speaking to academy members Nov. 11 in New Orleans, Professor William T. Driebe Jr., M.D., discussed rare infections that can occur with bacteria, fungus and a protozoa called Acanthamoeba. An expert on lens-related infections and cornea and external diseases, he also addressed the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of contact lens-related infections.

He was selected by board members of the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists (CLAO) to give the lecture at the association’s symposium, held during the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s annual meeting. The lectureship, titled the Whitney G. Sampson, M.D. Lecture, is sponsored by CLAO and was established in 1991 to honor Sampson, who died last year, for his dedication and lifelong commitment to ophthalmology. Sampson was a founding member of CLAO and held leadership roles in many ophthalmology organizations.

Driebe, who directs UF’s Cornea and External Diseases and Contact Lens services, is past president and former scientific programs committee chair of CLAO. He also is a fellow with the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

CLAO, founded in 1963, provides ophthalmologists and other eye-care professionals with the latest information in all areas of refractive science, including contact lenses, refractive surgery, ocular surface disease and eyewear dispensing.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the largest national association of ophthalmologists, with more than 94 percent of practicing U.S. ophthalmologists and more than 3,000 international ophthalmologists holding membership.