A review of contact lens discomfort: from the clinic to the laboratory.

The exact mechanisms underlying contact lens discomfort (CLD) remain unknown. CLD results from reduced compatibility between the lens and the ocular environment, and multiple factors can trigger discomfort when wearing the lens. Consequently, this narrative review aims to elucidate the symptoms, clinical signs (singly and in combination) and ocular surface inflammatory mediators associated with CLD. This information could be useful for improving CLD management strategies in the future. A literature search of the PubMed database revealed widespread use of dry eye questionnaires in contact lens (CL) wearers, however, the emerging use of specific questionnaires for CLD is considered more appropriate. Besides, several inflammatory mediators might play a role in the development of CLD. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the role of ocular surface inflammatory mediators involved in CLD to better understand this condition.