Evaluation of mucin changes between daily and extended wear silicone hydrogel contact lenses

Background: Initially, contact lenses were recommended only for daily wear because of infection and discomfort concerns. With rising demand, particularly for overnight use, extended wear lenses have gained significance. Despite concerns, intensive development of materials like Lotrafilcon B aims to meet this demand, focusing on comfort and safety.Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the mucin quantity and quality changes between daily and extended wear (Lotrafilcon B), impacting eye health and comfort.Setting: The study was conducted at Kirana Eye Center, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.Methods: This study was a single-blinded randomised clinical trial with two parallel groups. Forty (40) eligible subjects willingly participated. Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) and Ferning-type tests were conducted. The 40 subjects with moderate myopia were then divided into a daily wear and an extended wear group. The MUC5AC test was performed at pre-fitting and at 4 weeks, whereas the Ferning-type tests were taken at pre-fitting and 1st and 4th weeks.Results: For both groups, there was a significant increase in MUC5AC levels from pre-fitting to week four, but with no significant difference between them in final MUC5AC levels. Additionally, the comparison of eyes with normal and abnormal Ferning-types between the two groups showed no significant differences at pre-fitting, 1st and 4th weeks.Conclusion: There is no significant difference in MUC5AC levels with the use of daily or extended wear (with Lotrafilcon B).Contribution: This study compares the impact of daily and extended wear Lotrafilcon B contact lenses on eye health and comfort in moderate myopia patients.