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Corneal vascularization in hydrogel contact lens wearers
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|March 1, 1981
Summary
To reduce corneal neovascularization in hydrogel contact lens wearers, lenses should balance thickness and water content for optimal oxygen transmission. Avoid lens designs that compress the limbus to prevent inflammation and leukocyte invasion, promoting better corneal health.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Corneal neovascularization is associated with limbal injection, peripheral corneal edema, and leukocyte infiltration.
- Hydrogel contact lenses present potential risks for corneal vascularization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide guidelines for hydrogel contact lens design and fitting to minimize corneal neovascularization.
- To inform practitioners on evaluating corneal health in contact lens wearers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of factors influencing oxygen transmission through hydrogel lenses.
- Evaluation of the impact of lens fit on limbal vasculature and corneal inflammation.
Main Results:
- Optimal hydrogel lens design requires a minimum average thickness and maximum water content for adequate oxygen transmission.
- Preventing limbal area compression reduces the risk of limbal injection and subsequent leukocyte invasion.
Conclusions:
- Adhering to specific hydrogel lens design principles can decrease the incidence of corneal vascularization.
- These guidelines aid practitioners in assessing and maintaining corneal health for contact lens wearers.