Contact lenses can lead to disruption of the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. Fluorescein sodium (Fl) highlights compromised cells. Lissamine green (LG) mainly highlights areas of conjunctival compromise. Both are available as impregnated paper strips. Wet with a couple of drops of normal saline to produce a solution for use. Fl is available as a low molecular weight (LMW) version and a high molecular weight (HMW) version which does not penetrate hydrogel lenses. HMW Fl does not stain or fluoresce as well as LMW Fl so is less effective. Both LMW Fl and LG discolour soft contact lenses, so remove them prior to instilling the dye! Solution-induced staining will be dealt with separately.
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