[Corneal metabolism with contact lenses in competitive sports]

The corneal metabolism during the use of contact lenses plays an important role for permanent corneal health, especially in competitive sports. Thus, it is important to understand the steps of corneal metabolism in general and during highly competitive sports activity in particular. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on physiological and biochemical effects of contact lens wear. Of the energy requirements of the cornea 75 % is supplied by aerobic processes; therefore, the eye needs the highest possible amount of oxygen and sufficient glucose which can be obtained from external air and to a lesser degree from within the anterior chamber. If the oxygen supply is too low this results in hypoxic edema. Fitting athletes with contact lenses must still be viewed with caution as the visual needs of athletes are usually much more demanding than those of the general public. An indiscriminate choice of lens design can adversely affect athletic performance and may even create a hazardous situation. An intelligent choice of contact lens can provide some subtle advantages that may improve athletic performance and provide the decisive margin for victory.