title: Microbiological aspects of extended-wear soft contact lenses.
abstract: Corneal ulcers are the most devastating complication associated with extended-wear soft contact lenses. The increasing prevalence of microbial keratitis associated with the wear of these lenses is a major concern for the optometrist. Studies of extended-wear and daily-wear contact lens patients strongly suggest that extended-wear patients face a greater risk of ulcerative keratitis than other cosmetic contact lens wearers. This discussion addresses the potential risks of extended-wear, with emphasis on ulcerative keratitis, the likely causes for these increased risks, and what the optometrist can do to reduce the risk of a microbial infection.
authors.forename: C G
authors.initials: CG
authors.lastname: Connor
mesh_terms: D003262:Contact Lenses, Extended-Wear / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003320:Corneal Ulcer / Q000382:microbiology / Q000469:parasitology / Q000517:prevention & control; D003358:Cosmetics / Q000009:adverse effects; D015817:Eye Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D003358:Cosmetics