title: Microbial contamination of cases used for storing contact lenses.
abstract: A survey of the hygienic practices of 178 contact lens wearers in west central Scotland was conducted along with assessment of microbial contamination of their lens storage cases. Multivariate analysis indicated that in some subgroups of lens wearers, the method of disinfection used, the use of unmodified tap water and the age of the lens, were significantly associated with microbial contamination of storage cases. In addition, statistical analysis suggested that features other than those commonly considered as important in contact lens hygiene, and therefore included in this study, may be more significant predictors of contamination of cases. Instruction of patients, patient compliance and simplicity of the regimen for the care of contact lenses may be important for achieving their safer use.
authors.affiliation: Pathology Department, Western Infirmary, Glasgow, U.K.
authors.forename: B J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Clark
authors.forename: L S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Harkins
authors.forename: F A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Munro
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Devonshire
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000656:Amoeba / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D000818:Animals; D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D002648:Child; D003261:Contact Lenses / Q000009:adverse effects; D003263:Contact Lenses, Hydrophilic / Q000009:adverse effects; D004203:Disinfection / Q000379:methods; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006920:Hygiene; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012606:Scotland; D014871:Water Microbiology; D014881:Water Supply