New research shows several strains of bacteria can form biofilms on contact lenses, making the microbes more resistant to lens disinfection with contact lens solutions. In the September 2009 issue of the medical journal Cornea, researchers reported the results of a recent study of bacterial biofilms grown on silicone hydrogel contacts.
The researchers designed a study to determine if three types of bacteria associated with contact lens-related eye infections (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens and Staphylococcus aureus) form biofilms on silicone hydrogel contacts, and what effect this might have on the ability of contact lens solutions to effectively disinfect contacts.
Biofilms are collections or aggregates of microorganisms that adhere to a surface (such as a contact lens or contact lens storage case) and to components of the biofilm itself.
The researchers found that all three types of bacteria studied form biofilms on silicone hydrogel contact lenses. When examined microscopically, the biofilms consisted of dense networks of cells arranged in multiple layers, forming a matrix with extracellular material.
The study also demonstrated that the biofilms formed by these bacteria decreased the disinfecting effectiveness of common multipurpose contact lens solutions.
This research confirms the importance of proper contact lens care and scheduled replacement of disposable contacts to decrease the build-up of bacterial biofilms on contact lenses that may increase the risk of contact lens-related eye infections.
You can learn more about contact lens biofilms here.
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