[Complications due to soft hydrophilic contact lenses]

Soft hydrophilic contact lenses are widely favored thanks to their minimal ocular irritation. They may, however, also cause severe eye disease. In this report, allergies, hypoxia, tear film alterations, toxic effects and infections, as caused by soft lenses, are described, and their diagnosis, differential diagnosis and prophylaxis discussed. Moreover, it is pointed out that a misdiagnosis of "contact lens intolerance" may have serious consequences.