Purpose. To describe a case of a patient who had worn the same
therapeutic soft contact lens (TSCL) continuously for twelve years,
since he had failed to attend normal follow-up visits.
Methods. Microbiological histological and scanning electron microscopic
(SEM) studies of conjunctiva, cornea and TSCL were done.
Results. Cultures were negative. Corneal histology revealed mild stromal
edema and mild epithelial parakeratosis. Corneal SEM was remarkable for
the preservation to some extent of normal corneal epithelial
specialization with microtricae and microvillae. SEM of the TSCL showed
a ruffed multi-layer surface with several cracks including different
types of cells.
Conclusions. The patient showed surprising tolerance to the continuous
wear of the same contact lens for 12 years
