The red eye in contact lens wearers--a high risk presentation

Abstract

Sore eyes are a common primary care presentation. Within this group, contact lens wearers are at risk of developing serious complications and should be identified accordingly. Contact lens associated bacterial keratitis is a sight pathogen from corneal scrapings in patients who wear contact lenses and develop this condition. Pseudomonas is not sensitive to chloramphenicol and as such, will not respond to the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for sore eyes. These patients require urgent referral for corneal scrapings to allow culture and sensitivity, which will direct treatment.