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Contact lens associated bacterial keratitis: past, present, and future
1University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, USA.
Summary
Bacterial keratitis in contact lens wearers is linked to lens type and patient factors. Advances in soft contact lens technology aim to reduce infection risks and improve safety.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Bacterial keratitis is a major complication of soft contact lens (SCL) wear.
- Understanding the historical pathogenesis of SCL-related bacterial keratitis is crucial for developing safer lenses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the medical history of bacterial keratitis pathogenesis in contact lens wear.
- To examine the relationship between successive generations of soft contact lenses and infection risk.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical data on contact lens-related bacterial keratitis.
- Analysis of personal clinical experience with different contact lens types.
Main Results:
- Bacterial corneal infections significantly limit SCL success.
- Patient epithelium health, hygiene practices, and overnight wear hypoxia are key risk factors.
- Lens type and design influence infection frequency.
Conclusions:
- Improved understanding of pathogenesis aids in preventing infectious complications.
- Progress shows a trend toward fewer and less severe infections.
- Future SCL development focuses on daily wear disposables with enhanced oxygen permeability and reduced bacterial adherence.