Epidemiology of contact lens‐induced infiltrates: an updated review

Abstract

Corneal infiltrative events (CIEs) are well established as a risk associated with soft contact lens wear. The incidence of symptomatic CIEs during extended soft lens wear ranges from 2.5 to six per cent; when asymptomatic CIEs are included, the incidence can be as high as 20–25 per cent. In daily soft lens wear, the annual incidence of symptomatic CIEs is about three per cent. There are various accepted methods of categorising CIEs, and a scoring system based on clinical signs and symptoms is a good approach to grade severity. Lens‐related risk factors include extended wear, silicone hydrogel material, the use of multipurpose solutions, bacterial bioburden and reusable lenses. Recent studies report that daily disposable lenses reduce the risk of CIEs.

Key words:

• contact lenses
• corneal infiltrative events

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This work was indirectly supported by the Ohio Lions Eye Research Foundation and Research to Prevent Blindness. Dr Szczotka‐Flynn has received research support from Alcon Laboratories and Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc in the past 12-months.

Additional information

Funding

Ohio Lions Eye Research Foundation and Research

Alcon Laboratories

Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc