Superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis associated with soft contact lens wear

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal disease
• Contact lens complications

Background:

• Cosmetic soft contact lens wear is prevalent.
• Lens intolerance and irritative symptoms can occur.
• Superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis (SLK) is a potential complication.

Observation:

• Four patients using cosmetic soft contact lenses reported intolerance and irritation.
• Clinical signs included papillary hypertrophy, conjunctival staining, limbal hypertrophy, and corneal staining.
• These signs were consistent with superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis.

Findings:

• Three cases resolved after discontinuing contact lens wear.
• One case showed persistent staining for two years despite improvement.
• No specific common causative contact lens factors were identified.

Implications:

• Soft contact lens wear can induce SLK-like changes.
• Discontinuation of lens wear is an effective treatment.
• Modified lens wear may be possible for some patients after resolution.