Hydrophilic Contact Lenses in Corneal Disease

Abstract

A series of six patients illustrates that a hydrophilic contact lens may be fitted upon an edematous corneal epithelium containing bullae. The lens is well tolerated and may be worn continuously for prolonged periods without adverse effects. The lens produces a rapid and dramatic relief of pain and the accompanying symptoms of chronic bullous keratopathy. The lens itself produces no significant improvement in the clinical pathology of the epithelium, and symptomatic relief is directly dependent upon the lens remaining in place on the diseased cornea.