Effects of contact lenses on scanning laser polarimetry of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer.

Abstract

To determine the effects of contact lenses on scanning laser polarimetry of the peripapillary nerve fiber layer. In a prospective study using the Nerve Fiber Analyzer (Laser Diagnostic Technologies, San Diego, California), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in 22 subjects (51 eyes) was imaged with and without contact lenses (disposable and nondisposable daily wear soft and rigid gas permeable). Measurements of the circumference and of each quadrant were compared using paired Student t test. Nerve Fiber Analyzer measurements with and without contact lenses were not significantly different for any of the contact lens types tested (P > or = .11), using either hyperopic (to +4 diopters) or myopic (to -8.5 diopters) lenses. Contact lens wear and refractive power of the eye within the range tested do not significantly affect scanning laser polarimetry of the peripapillary nerve fiber layer.