A Review of Contact Lens-Associated Infections and Biomaterial-Based Solutions

Approximately 150 million people worldwide wear contact lenses, and most wear them successfully. However, contact lens wear is a major risk factor for developing infections and inflammation of the eye. This review outlines the need for antimicrobial contact lenses to help reduce the incidence of infection and inflammation. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been probably the best researched as antimicrobial coatings for contact lenses, with one of these (Mel4) progressing to a successful stage III clinical trial. Other antimicrobials including metals such as silver and selenium, and quorum sensing inhibitors have also progressed through to clinical trials. Currently only the Mel4 coated lenses have been shown to reduce the incidence of contact lens-associated inflammation. Unfortunately, no antimicrobial lens is yet available for sale, but the need is clear, and researchers, manufacturers and contact lens wearers are encouraged to continue their efforts in this space.