Contact lens chemistry and giant papillary conjunctivitis.
OBJECTIVE
To review the relationship between contact lens chemistry and the occurrence of giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC).


METHODS
A review of the literature.


RESULTS
GPC can occur with any type of contact lenses. The coating on the lens and the contact lens trauma to the conjunctiva are probable factors. Changing the polymer of the contact lens that a patient with GPC wears can decrease the chance of the condition recurring. Also, replacing a soft contact lens at intervals of less than 3 weeks, rather than 4 or more weeks, significantly reduces the chance of developing GPC. GPC can occur with high Dk silicone contact lenses. Two forms of GPC have been reported: a generalized form similar to that seen with conventional soft contact lenses and a localized form in which the papillae are confined to one or two areas of the tarsal conjunctiva, near the lid margin.


CONCLUSIONS
Contact lens chemistry plays a role in the development of GPC; however, other factors such as edge design, surface properties, fitting characteristics, and replacement cycle are also important variables in the pathophysiology of GPC.
Donshik
Peter C
PC
University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA. pdonshik@hotmail.com
D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002621:Chemistry; D003233:Conjunctivitis, Allergic / Q000209:etiology*; D003261:Contact Lenses / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D006801:Humans; D011108:Polymers / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000737:chemistry
D011108:Polymers