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The dangers of distilled water in contact lens maintenance
Abstract:
The reports of serious corneal infection associated with hydrogel lens wear prompted us to explore the level of sterility of the distilled water used by lens wearers in our practice. Fifty patients supplied samples of their partially-used distilled water for testing. Of the samples, 12% were found to be contaminated. Five samples of previously unopened distilled water were tested and no growth was found. We recommend that patients do not use distilled water for the care of hydrogel contact lenses. Rather, sterile unit dose or multi-dose (aerosol) nonpreserved, or preserved salines can be used.
Insights
Distilled water used for hydrogel contact lens care can be contaminated, posing a risk of serious corneal infection. Patients should avoid using distilled water and opt for sterile saline solutions instead.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Serious corneal infections have been reported in patients wearing hydrogel contact lenses.
- Hydrogel lens wearers often use distilled water for lens care, raising concerns about its sterility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the sterility of distilled water used by hydrogel contact lens wearers.
- To determine the risk of microbial contamination in distilled water used for contact lens hygiene.
Main Methods:
- Collected partially-used distilled water samples from 50 hydrogel lens wearers.
- Tested collected samples for microbial contamination.
- Tested five unopened distilled water samples as a control.
Main Results:
- 12% of the partially-used distilled water samples showed microbial contamination.
- No contamination was found in the unopened distilled water samples.
Conclusions:
- Distilled water is not a sterile or safe option for hydrogel contact lens care.
- Recommend using sterile unit dose, multi-dose aerosol nonpreserved, or preserved saline solutions for hydrogel contact lens hygiene.