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Causative factors in unilateral giant papillary conjunctivitis
P C Palmisano1, W H Ehlers, P C Donshik
1University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington.
Summary
Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) can affect one eye, even in patients wearing bilateral contact lenses. Infrequent lens replacement and underlying ocular conditions may contribute to this unilateral presentation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Contact Lens Science
Background:
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is typically bilateral.
- Unilateral or asymmetrical GPC can occur in patients with bilateral contact lens wear.
Observation:
- A review of 148 GPC patients identified 14 with unilateral or markedly asymmetrical disease.
- Data analyzed included refractive error, keratometry, lens fit, lens care, and ocular abnormalities.
Findings:
- No statistically significant differences were found in lens care, refractive error, or keratometry between affected and unaffected eyes.
- Infrequent lens replacement, unilateral meibomian gland dysfunction, and prior ocular surgery were noted in some unilateral GPC cases.
Implications:
- While causative factors remain unclear in many cases, lens hygiene and replacement frequency are critical.
- Further investigation into contributing factors for unilateral GPC is warranted to optimize patient care.