What is Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis?

Inflammation associated with contact lens wear. Generally thought to be due to a combination of mechanical and immunologic factors. It causes bumps under the eyelid which become inflamed and lead to mucus, grittiness, less wearing time and poorer feeling and fitting contact lenses.

Who does it affect?

Contact lens wearers – more commonly with continuous wear, deposited lenses and those patients with dry eye or allergic histories. Certain soft lens materials may increase the risk.

How is it treated?

Discontinuation of lenses will cure the problem. However, most patients and their doctors choose a combination of reduced wearing schedules, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy drops to control the inflammation. Many patients are successfully refitting on a temporary or long-term basis with daily disposable soft lenses.