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Noninflammatory silicone hydrogel contact lens complications
1Centre for Contact Lens Research, School of Optometry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. kdumble@sciborg.uwaterloo.ca
Eye & Contact Lens
|May 30, 2003
Summary
Silicone hydrogel contact lenses reduce hypoxia but can cause mechanical complications like mucin balls and papillary conjunctivitis. This review covers their causes, symptoms, and management strategies for continuous wear.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Contact Lens Technology
Background:
- High Dk silicone hydrogel lenses have improved oxygen permeability for extended contact lens wear.
- Continuous wear of these lenses is increasingly popular, addressing previous hypoxia-related issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review non-inflammatory clinical complications associated with silicone hydrogel lens wear.
- To discuss the origin, presentation, and management of these complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical complications in silicone hydrogel lens wearers.
- Analysis of mechanical disturbances and trauma as causative factors.
Main Results:
- Identified complications include mucin balls, superior epithelial arcuate lesions, contact lens papillary conjunctivitis, and corneal erosions.
- These issues arise from mechanical factors despite the absence of hypoxia.
Conclusions:
- Silicone hydrogel lenses, while mitigating hypoxia, present mechanical challenges.
- Management strategies are crucial to minimize complications for continuous wear patients.