[Endothelial function in contact lens-induced deep corneal opacities].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Science
• Contact Lens Research

Context:

• Deep stromal and preendothelial corneal opacities are an increasing concern for contact lens wearers.
• Patients with over ten years of contact lens history are particularly at risk.
• Understanding corneal endothelial permeability is crucial for assessing contact lens-related complications.

Purpose:

• To determine and compare the corneal endothelial permeability in long-term contact lens wearers with and without deep corneal opacities.
• To compare these values against a healthy control group without ocular disease.

Summary:

• The study measured corneal endothelial permeability using a computerized automated fluorophotometer and Na-fluorescein in 21 patients with over ten years of HEMA 38% contact lens wear and 8 healthy controls.
• Contact lens wearers exhibiting deep corneal opacities showed a significantly increased corneal endothelial permeability (p = 0.05) compared to wearers without opacities.
• No significant increase in endothelial permeability was observed in contact lens wearers without corneal opacities compared to the control group.

Impact:

• This research identifies a significant correlation between deep corneal opacities in long-term contact lens wearers and increased corneal endothelial permeability.
• Findings suggest that corneal opacities may serve as an indicator of compromised endothelial function in this patient group.
• Highlights the need for monitoring and potentially revised management strategies for long-term contact lens wearers experiencing corneal changes.