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Demodex harbored in both contact lens wearers, nonwearers
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Researchers reported that Demodex was found in higher numbers in patients who wore contact lenses in a study recently published in Optometry and Vision Science.
Jalbert and colleagues evaluated 40 participants to compare Demodex infestation between contact lens wearers and nonwearers as well as signs, symptoms and detection in general.
The study included 20 participants who wore contact lenses and 20 participants who did not. Researchers utilized the Ocular Surface Disease Index, Ocular Comfort Index and Dry Eye Questionnaire to evaluate ocular comfort scores, as well as tear osmolarity, vital staining, meibomian gland evaluation and tear break-up time. To detect the Demodex, they used conventional light microscopy and in vivo confocal microscopy.
Results showed that Demodex was detected in 90% of lens wearers and 65% of nonwearers with confocal microscopy compared to 70% of lens wearers and 60% of nonwearers with conventional light microscopy. Researchers also reported that the number of Demodex was higher in lens wearers and that the number increased with age. Additionally, ocular comfort and clinical signs were unaffected by Demodex.
"Contact lens wearers harbor more Demodex than nonwearers, and this is perhaps best detected using in vivo confocal microscopy," the authors concluded. "The significance of these findings is uncertain because no associations were found with any symptoms and signs of dry eye disease. Manufacturers of contact lens care products may want to formulate future products with these results in mind." – by Chelsea Frajerman
Disclosure: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
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