Medical aspects of contact lens wear

THE CASE REPORT by Brooks et al. published in this issue of the Journal (page 490) draws attention to the potential hazards of contact lenses. These devices are commonly used both to correct refractive errors and as protective membranes in the treatment of disorders of the superficial layers of the cornea. Although they have contributed greatly to the reduction of visual disability in those who require them, they may also produce pathological changes in the eye, some of which can threaten the vision. Various patterns of disease related to contact lens wear are being recognized- some are trivial, others are more serious. These complications of contact lens wear limit the usefulness of the appliances in some cases, and will influence the types of lens and the maintenance available in the future. Familiarity with the indications and complications of contact lenses is of importance not only to the ophthalmologist but also to the general practitioner. The demand for such lenses is high(particularly from the younger members of the community),and the ocular inflammation that may be associated with the wearing of contact lenses is consequently a common reason for attendance at a general practitioner's surgery or the hospital emergency department.