Peripheral corneal staining and scarring with rigid gas permeable contact lenses: A case report

Abstract

Although the association between rigid contact lens wear and peripheral corneal staining is well documented, the cause of this rigid lens consequence remains speculative. Many authors maintain that peripheral corneal staining results from physiologic or anatomical factors associated with the individual patient and that rigid contact lens wear exacerbates these factors. Other authors suggest the staining is simply a consequence of improper contact lens design. This article describes a patient found to have bilateral peripheral corneal scarring in the presence of apparently normal ocular anatomy and physiology. It is likely that this occurred as a result of long-term peripheral corneal staining caused by the design of the patient's rigid contact lenses. Proper follow-up care may have prevented this problem.