Contact Lens-induced Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency

Ocul Surf. 2016 Oct;14(4):419-434. doi: 10.1016/j.jtos.2016.06.003. Epub 2016 Jul 30.

Abstract

Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition caused by the dysfunction and/or destruction of stem cell precursors of the corneal epithelium, typified clinically by corneal conjunctivalization. The purpose of this review is to critically discuss a less well-known cause of limbal stem cell disease: contact lens (CL) wear. A literature search was conducted to include original articles containing patients with CL-induced LSCD. This review describes epidemiology, diagnostic strategies, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, and treatment modalities for this condition.

Keywords: contact lens; corneal conjunctivalization; limbal stem cell deficiency; limbal stem cells.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Contact Lenses / adverse effects*
  • Corneal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Corneal Diseases / epidemiology
  • Corneal Diseases / etiology*
  • Corneal Diseases / therapy
  • Epithelium, Corneal / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Limbus Corneae / pathology*
  • Stem Cell Transplantation
  • Stem Cells / pathology*
  • Visual Acuity