Comparing goblet cell densities in patients wearing disposable hydrogel contact lenses versus silicone hydrogel contact lenses in an extended-wear modality.
OBJECTIVE
The current study evaluates the response of the ocular surface to extended contact lens wear by comparing a new silicone hydrogel lens to an ACUVUE 2 lens.


METHODS
Twenty subjects with an average age of 28 years were randomly assigned to a fitting with ACUVUE 2 or PureVision lenses. Ocular surface assessment by impression cytology was performed at baseline and for the 6 months after initiation of lens wear.


RESULTS
Although goblet cell density significantly increased with wear time, no statistically significant difference was observed between the contact lens groups. The average baseline goblet cell percentages were as follows: ACUVUE 2 group, 1.44; PureVision group, 1.11. The 6-month averages were as follows: ACUVUE 2 group, 3.16; PureVision group, 2.22.


CONCLUSIONS
It appears that silicone hydrogel lenses may be slightly less irritating to the ocular surface than lenses not containing silicone. This could be a promising indicator for successful 30-day continuous wear.
Lievens
Christopher W
CW
Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, TN, USA. clievens@sco.edu
Connor
Charles G
CG
Murphy
Heather
H
D000328:Adult; D002452:Cell Count; D003228:Conjunctiva / Q000166:cytology*; D003262:Contact Lenses, Extended-Wear; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D005260:Female; D020397:Goblet Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D006801:Humans; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting; D012826:Silicone Elastomers
D012826:Silicone Elastomers; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate