Noninflammatory Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lens Complications

Abstract

High Dk silicone hydrogel lenses have overcome many of the hypoxic problems associated with traditional extended wear, and the popularity of continuous wear with these lens types is increasing. Despite the elimination of hypoxia, several noninflammatory clinical complications have been reported to occur as a result of mechanical disturbances or trauma when wearing silicone hydrogel lenses. This article reviews the origin and presentation of mucin balls, superior epithelial arcuate lesions, contact lens papillary conjunctivitis, and corneal erosions in silicone hydrogel lens wearers. A number of management strategies and approaches to minimize the occurrence of these clinical complications are also discussed.