Archives: Lessons

Treatment of GPC Many times, GPC can be alleviated by early intervention. With contact lens removal, the disease should subside and eventually cease. Most patients, however, are dissatisfied with discontinuing lens wear for long periods. The goal of therapy is to control the clinical signs and symptoms of GPC while allowing the safe use of … Continued

A distinction has been made between the papillae found in persons who do not wear contact lenses and those in patients with GPC. To assist in this distinction, the appearance of the upper tarsal conjunctiva has been divided into four types: satin‐textured conjunctiva with a smooth surface devoid of papillae, a uniform papillary response (four … Continued

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (Contact Lens Induced) GPC Clinical signs and symptoms Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC), also termed contact lens-induced papillary conjunctivitis, is a complication affecting both soft and rigid contact lens wearers. The condition was first described in 1974 by Spring in an attempt to differentiate it from other forms of allergic conjunctival disease. GPC … Continued

Corneal Vascularization Appearance The appearance of the vascular response will vary depending on the duration of the irritation and the type of pathology. Loss of the normal architecture of the corneal stroma will result in a twisting of any penetrating vasculature, whereas maintenance of stromal uniformity will render a straighter course. Peripheral corneal edema secondary … Continued

Injection Not Related to Contact Lens Wear It may be difficult for the practitioner to determine if the injection is not lens-related. If the soft lens is fitting properly, non-preserved solutions are used, and the lens is clean and new, but the injection continues after lens wear is discontinued, then the eye should be evaluated … Continued

Lens-related injection symptoms Lens‐related injection can occur upon insertion or after lens wear and will improve as lens wear is discontinued. Immediate injection with burning on insertion will most likely be related to solution sensitivity. The use of preservatives such as thimerosal, chlorhexidine, and benzalkonium chloride in increased concentrations or for a prolonged period of … Continued

Injection Generalized Injection A clinical sign seen with both soft and GP lens wear is conjunctival injection (typically described as “redness” by patients). The causes of generalized injection found in soft contact lens wearers may or may not be related to contact lens wear. Typically, if the soft lens is the cause, the injection results … Continued

Corneal Swelling Placement of a hydrogel lens on the eye results in a decrease in the amount of oxygen available to the cornea. Lid closure further decreases oxygen at the anterior surface of the contact lens in comparison with the open‐eye condition. Indirect endothelial function studies of the corneal swelling response to the overnight use … Continued

Staining Patterns Linear corneal staining may be secondary to a foreign body trapped under the lens, such as an eyelash. The flushing of the eye to assist in removing any foreign particles could result in “foreign body tracking” due to lens movement. Lens deposits, as well as trapped epithelial debris, may result in scattered punctate … Continued

Clinical Evaluation Patient Complaints The patient may have complaints and concerns that necessitate a review and examination. Just a few of the most common complaints are: an itching or burning sensation, irritation in the morning hours after all night wear of extended-wear lenses, cloudy vision, excessive tearing or an extremely dry feeling, and decreased hours … Continued

Introduction A soft contact lens is the most popular lens on today’s market. New or improved materials, and advances in design, have eliminated many of the ocular problems seen in the past. This is due to the better oxygen delivery and comfort provided by a soft contact lens. However, no contact lens is perfect for … Continued

Click to download and print the course. To get the most out of this course, we recommend completing it in an environment free from distractions. Platform Instructions If you prefer to print the course and test questions, the PDF version is located below. Download & Print Courses are now broken down into Lessons. You can … Continued

In the evolving world of eye care, collaboration and partnerships will play an increasingly essential role. Eye care providers, healthcare organizations, community groups, and educational institutions will come together to foster interdisciplinary approaches aimed at addressing disparities in eye care and enhancing patient outcomes. These collective efforts will lead to innovative solutions, ensuring that the … Continued

By implementing these small but meaningful changes, eye care providers can foster a more inclusive and patient-centered environment for all.  The future of diversity and inclusion in the field of eye care holds great promise but also presents ongoing challenges. The Future Workplace According to projections from the US Census Bureau, demographic shifts in the … Continued

Telemedicine and Remote Eye Care Telemedicine and remote health services have emerged as powerful tools to address geographic barriers to access in eye healthcare. These technologies enable eye care providers to remotely diagnose, monitor, and treat patients. This can be especially beneficial to those in underserved or remote areas with limited access to traditional healthcare … Continued