CORNEAL ULCERS IN PATIENTS WITH DISPOSABLE EXTENDED-WEAR CONTACT-LENSES

We report on a series of 13 consecutive cases of disposable extended-wear contact lens-related corneal ulcers. The mean wearing time was 4.4 days (range, 2-12 days). The mean time interval from initial symptoms to the seeking of medical attention was 31 hours. Corneal ulceration was defined as a white infiltrate with an overlying epithelial defect. The size of the ulcers ranged from 0.5 to 1.5 mm; 77% were 1 mm or less. An anterior chamber inflammatory reaction was present in 69% of the ulcers. Corneal scrapings and cultures were obtained in five cases; two yielded an infectious agent. This study suggests that early evaluation and treatment may reduce the morbidity and enhance the outcome in disposable contact lens-related keratitis. Disposable extended-wear contact lens wearers are at risk for corneal ulcer formation.