Microbial contamination of contact lens storage cases and solutions

Am J Ophthalmol. 1990 Aug 15;110(2):193-8. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)76991-0.

Abstract

We compared microbial contamination of contact lens storage cases of asymptomatic contact lens wearers (Group 1; No. = 118; sampled once) and of contact lens wearers with manufacturer's lens-care instructions reinforced (Group 2; No. = 62; sampled three, six, 12, and 20 weeks after initial advisement). A significantly higher incidence of contamination of contact lens storage cases and solutions was observed among samples from Group 1 (132 of 247 samples) as compared to samples from Group 2 (30 of 500 samples; P = .000). Contact lens storage cases of individuals in Group 2 who used hydrogen peroxide systems (four of 78) showed a significantly lower incidence of contamination as compared to individuals who used other chemical disinfection (11 of 62 soft lens users; 10 of 59 rigid gas-permeable lens users; P = .041). Biofilms, adhered microorganisms embedded in a glycocalyx, in contact lens storage cases were not always inactivated by the addition of fresh solutions. Cleaning and periodic replacement of contact lens storage cases is recommended.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteria / drug effects
  • Bacteria / isolation & purification*
  • Bacteria / ultrastructure
  • Contact Lenses*
  • Disinfection / methods
  • Equipment Contamination*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Education as Topic