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Contact lens disinfection by ultraviolet light
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 15, 1989
Summary
This study shows that 253.7-nm ultraviolet light effectively kills common eye pathogens on contact lenses. This germicidal UV light offers a rapid and safe disinfection method for contact lens wearers.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Contact lens wear is associated with a risk of microbial keratitis.
- Effective disinfection of contact lenses and storage solutions is crucial for preventing eye infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the germicidal efficacy of a 253.7-nm ultraviolet (UV) light against various corneal pathogens.
- To determine the safety of UV light exposure for soft contact lenses.
Main Methods:
- A 253.7-nm UV light source with an intensity of 1,100 microW/cm2 was used.
- Germicidal activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Acanthamoeba polyphaga.
- Soft contact lenses were exposed to UV light for extended periods to assess material integrity.
Main Results:
- UV exposure times to reduce organism concentration from 10(6)/ml to <10/ml were 30s (S. aureus), 60s (P. aeruginosa), and 84s (C. albicans).
- Sterilization of 10(4)/ml A. polyphaga suspensions was achieved in under three minutes.
- Four brands of soft contact lenses showed no changes in appearance, comfort, or refraction after over eight hours of UV exposure.
Conclusions:
- 253.7-nm UV light demonstrates potent germicidal activity against key corneal pathogens.
- This UV light disinfection method is safe for soft contact lenses.
- UV light presents a promising technology for contact lens disinfection and preventing microbial keratitis.