Contact lens care solutions and corneal epithelial barrier function: a fluorophotometric study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Physiology
• Contact Lens Technology

Background:

• Contact lens care solutions are essential for maintaining lens hygiene.
• Concerns exist regarding the potential impact of residual solution components on ocular surface health.
• Understanding the corneal barrier function is crucial for evaluating ocular surface compatibility of contact lens care products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the in vivo effect of residual hydrogen peroxide and polyaminopropyl biguanide contact lens solutions on corneal epithelial barrier function.
• To compare the impact of two common contact lens care solutions on corneal permeability.
• To determine if standard use of these solutions affects the integrity of the corneal barrier.

Main Methods:

• Corneal epithelial permeability was measured using fluorophotometry in 30 healthy contact lens wearers.
• Participants used two different contact lens care solutions for one month each.
• Permeability values were analyzed to assess the corneal barrier function after solution exposure.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in corneal epithelial permeability was observed between the two contact lens care solutions (p = 0.2).
• Most participants exhibited corneal permeability within normal ranges for healthy eyes.
• One case of elevated permeability was attributed to improper use of the care system.

Conclusions:

• Both hydrogen peroxide and polyaminopropyl biguanide contact lens care solutions appear safe for corneal epithelial barrier function.
• Adherence to handling instructions is critical for maintaining ocular surface health with contact lens use.
• These findings support the safe use of these contact lens solutions when instructions are followed.