Which Lenses Stress the Surface? - Report - MDSpire

Which Lenses Stress the Surface?

  • By

  • Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS

  • May 1, 2026

  • 3 min

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Clinical Report: Association of Dry Eye Disease and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in KC

Overview

This study investigates the relationship between dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) in keratoconus (KC) patients, revealing that contact lens modality influences ocular surface signs but not the prevalence of DED or MGD. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lens wearers exhibited more severe ocular surface signs compared to non-wearers.

Background

Dry eye disease is a common condition that significantly impacts quality of life, particularly in patients with keratoconus. Meibomian gland dysfunction is a leading cause of evaporative dry eye, and understanding its association with contact lens wear is crucial for effective management. This study highlights the need for regular ocular surface monitoring in keratoconus patients, especially those using RGP lenses.

Data Highlights

{'non_wearers': {'TBUT': 'Not specified', 'Corneal Staining': 'Not specified', 'Meibomian Gland Loss': 'Not specified'}}

Key Findings

{'SoftK': "Clarify as 'Soft K' or 'SoftK' consistently."}

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should prioritize regular ocular surface assessments in keratoconus patients, particularly those using RGP lenses, due to the increased risk of ocular surface complications. Tailored management strategies should be employed based on the type of contact lens used to mitigate the effects of DED and MGD.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of monitoring ocular surface health in keratoconus patients, particularly those wearing RGP lenses, to prevent and manage dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction effectively.

References

  1. Barnett M., Contact Lens Spectrum, 2023 -- Which Lenses Stress the Surface?
  2. AAO Dry Eye Syndrome Guideline Summary 2024 Preferred Practice Pattern - Guideline Central
  3. The microenvironment of ocular surface in keratoconus: a systematic review | Eye and Vision | Full Text
  4. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Materials
  5. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Materials
  6. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Complications -- Part II
  7. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Complications -- Part II
  8. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Materials
  9. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Complications -- Part II
  10. AAO Dry Eye Syndrome Guideline Summary 2024 Preferred Practice Pattern - Guideline Central
  11. The microenvironment of ocular surface in keratoconus: a systematic review | Eye and Vision | Full Text
  12. Meibomian Gland Alterations in Keratoconus Patients After Corneal Cross-Linking - PMC

Original Source(s)

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