Bilateral corneal neovascularization and opacification associated with unmonitored contact lens wear.

PURPOSE: To report a case of severe bilateral deep stromal neovascularization and opacification associated with unmonitored contact lens wear.

DESIGN

Observational case report.

METHODS

A 46-year-old woman who had been using hydrogel contact lenses bought on the Internet without a prescription for 5 years was found to have dense, bilateral corneal opacities with deep stromal neovascularization.

RESULTS

The patient's contact lenses were found to be tight-fitting. Medical history and serological studies were negative for infectious or rheumatologic causes of interstitial keratitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The deep stromal neovascularization and the associated corneal opacification are most likely related to the unmonitored contact lens use and the lack of routine eye examinations. We believe it is critical that all contact lens wearers receive professional eye care on a regular basis regardless of where they obtain their contact lens supplies.