When CLPU is treated conservatively, what is the recommended management?

When CLPU is treated conservatively, what is the recommended management?

• A. Prophylactic topical antibiotic
• B. Continue lens wear with lubricating drops
• C. Oral steroids
• D. Discontinue lens wear, prophylactic antibiotic

Answer: (D)

CLPU represents a sterile inflammatory peripheral corneal ulcer linked to contact lens wear. The aim of conservative management is to remove the ongoing irritant and protect the cornea while healing occurs. Stopping lens wear eliminates the mechanical and hypoxic stress driving the lesion, allowing the cornea to recover. Starting a prophylactic topical antibiotic helps guard against secondary bacterial infection during healing. Oral steroids are avoided because they can mask infection and worsen infectious keratitis if present. Simply continuing lens wear with lubricating drops does not address the underlying irritation, and using antibiotics without stopping lens wear may not be sufficient for healing. Thus, the recommended approach is to discontinue lens wear and initiate a prophylactic topical antibiotic.

CLPU represents a sterile inflammatory peripheral corneal ulcer linked to contact lens wear. The aim of conservative management is to remove the ongoing irritant and protect the cornea while healing occurs. Stopping lens wear eliminates the mechanical and hypoxic stress driving the lesion, allowing the cornea to recover. Starting a prophylactic topical antibiotic helps guard against secondary bacterial infection during healing. Oral steroids are avoided because they can mask infection and worsen infectious keratitis if present. Simply continuing lens wear with lubricating drops does not address the underlying irritation, and using antibiotics without stopping lens wear may not be sufficient for healing. Thus, the recommended approach is to discontinue lens wear and initiate a prophylactic topical antibiotic.