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A comparative study of techniques for decreasing contact lens storage case contamination
N D Larragoiti1, M E Diamos, P A Simmons
1Southern California College of Optometry, Fullerton 92631.
Background:
Contact lens storage cases may harbor a variety of pathogenic organisms, and are a potential source of ocular infection. In this study, we evaluated the anti-microbial efficacy of several methods of rinsing of contact lens storage cases.
Methods:
Lens cases were inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and then 1) rinsed with hot tap water and closed without drying, 2) rinsed with hot tap water followed by air drying, 3) rinsed with 3% hydrogen peroxide followed by air drying, or 4) left closed and undisturbed (control condition). After 24 hours, the cases were cultured to determine the rate of disinfection.
Results:
The hydrogen peroxide rinse was the most effective (99.5 percent of cases disinfected), followed by hot water with air drying (94.7 percent) and hot water without drying (51.1 percent). Significant residual hydrogen peroxide was detected in the cases rinsed with peroxide.
Conclusions:
Therefore, we recommend that patients be instructed to rinse their cases with hot water and allow them to air dry after use, as well as replace their cases on a regular basis.
Insights
Rinsing contact lens cases with hot water and air drying effectively disinfects them, reducing infection risk. Regular case replacement is also recommended for optimal eye health.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Contact lens storage cases can harbor pathogenic organisms, posing a risk for ocular infections.
- Effective disinfection of contact lens cases is crucial for preventing microbial contamination and eye infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of different rinsing methods for contact lens storage cases.
- To determine the most effective disinfection strategy for preventing microbial growth in lens cases.
Main Methods:
- Contact lens cases were inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Cases were subjected to four conditions: hot water rinse (no drying), hot water rinse with air drying, 3% hydrogen peroxide rinse with air drying, and a control (undisturbed).
- Disinfection rates were determined by culturing cases after 24 hours.
Main Results:
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse achieved the highest disinfection rate (99.5%).
- Hot water rinse with air drying was effective in 94.7% of cases.
- Hot water rinse without drying showed a lower efficacy (51.1%), with significant residual hydrogen peroxide detected in peroxide-treated cases.
Conclusions:
- Rinsing contact lens cases with hot water and air drying is a recommended disinfection method.
- Patients should be instructed on proper case hygiene, including rinsing, air drying, and regular replacement.
- These practices can significantly reduce the risk of ocular infections associated with contact lens wear.