Biofilms and contact lenses: problems and solutions

Abstract

Contact lenses provide excellent vision correction for many people worldwide. However, they can become colonised by microorganisms and this can result in infections and inflammatory responses at the surface of the eye during wear. If not quickly and appropriately treated, the infections can lead to loss of vision and even loss of the eye. The microorganisms, most commonly bacteria, that colonise the lenses can form biofilms on the lenses. For the past 25years, we have been studying the epidemiology of contact lens-related infection and inflammation, the causative organisms, risk factors for developing the conditions, and new ways of reducing biofilm formation. This article provides an overview of this research.

Keywords

• antimicrobial devices
• biofilms
• contact lenses
• keratitis
• risk factors