The Use of Bandage Contact Lenses in Adenoviral Keratoconjunctivitis

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the use of the bandage contact lenses (BCLs) in adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis-related ocular surface problems.

Fifteen eyes of 15 consecutive patients presenting at the Ankara University Medical Center, Cornea and Contact Lens Service, and requiring BCL use for adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis-related ocular surface problems were enrolled. Visual acuity, slitlamp examination findings, indication and duration of the BCL use, the total follow-up, and any adjuvant medication were recorded. All patients were followed regarding the success of treatment and adverse effects associated with BCL use.

The average age at the time of presentation was 26.8±15.5 years. The major reasons for BCL use included epithelial defect (7 eyes), filamentous keratopathy (5 eyes), epithelial edema (1 eyes), and filamentous keratopathy together with epithelial defect (2 eyes). After the first appearance of conjunctivitis symptoms, the mean time to BCL application was 9.0±3.9 days. The mean duration of contact lens wear was 9.9±6.5 days, and the mean follow-up was 26.4±15.8 days. Preservative-free artificial tears and topical antibiotics were used in all cases. Besides, topical ganciclovir 0.15% gel (8 eyes), topical 0.4% povidone-iodine solution (9 eyes), and topical steroids (11 eyes) were used in various combinations. At the end of the follow-up period, the mean visual acuity improved from 0.23±0.32 logMAR units (∼0.6 Snellen line) to 0.0l±0.04 logMAR units (∼1.0 Snellen line) (P=0.042). No sight-threatening complication related to contact lens wear was encountered.

Adjuvant use of BCLs seems to be safe and effective in the treatment of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis-related ocular surface problems. Close follow-up and prophylactic use of topical antibiotics are rationalistic for prevention of secondary infections.