Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)

 

This is probably one of the most common problems related to contact lens wear. It is generally thought to be caused by a reaction to protein deposits on contact lenses. Typically a patient who has been wearing soft contact lenses for years without any problems, suddenly develops an intolerance to the lens.

GPC Symptoms:
● Itchy eyes
● Excessive contact lens movement
● Excessive mucous discharge from the eye
● Treatment of Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis

In most cases, treatment of giant papillary conjunctivitis involves discontinuing the use of contact lenses to allow the eye to recover. This may be for several days or several weeks. More severe cases may require even longer to resolve.

Changing to disposable contact lenses help because it is the debris and protein on lenses that trigger GPC. the type of lenses worn helps. Also, changing to a peroxide contact lens solution system usually helps. The chemicals and preservatives found in many other types of solution systems can also trigger GPC. Prescription eye drops can help alleviate the symptoms, especially the itchy feeling.

Follow-up care is important. GPC is difficult to control. If the condition is not treated properly and steps taken to prevent a recurrence, it can become a chronic condition. It may, in advanced cases, prevent further use of contact lenses.

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) is a type of allergic reaction, usually to protein deposits on contact lenses. Since these deposits are more common with soft contact lens use, GPC is more common with soft lenses also. Sometimes GPC can occur as a reaction to the presence of a lens itself, or in reaction to lens solutions used. GPC is visible as large lumps beneath the upper eyelid (usually). These lumps can interfere with lens use, as they may "grab" the lens when the upper eyelid blinks over the lens. Other symptoms include itching, discharge, and redness.

Regular enzyme treatments and proper contact lens cleaning techniques may reduce the chance of GPC. The use of preservative-free solutions can help as well. However, once GPC develops, the use of contact lenses often must be temporarily discontinued while the condition resolves. Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy eye medications may help to speed resolution and to ease symptoms. Frequent cases of GPC due to protein deposits on lenses may be prevented by using disposable lenses, since these do not have a chance to build up the deposits.