Spherical indentations of human and rabbit corneal epithelium following extended contact lens wear.

Abstract

Spherical indentations of the corneal epithelium induced by mucin balls appear to be gaps or holes that can extend deep into the corneal epithelium. Indentations may potentially open a pathway for infectious microorganisms to penetrate the cornea. Surprisingly, stromal cells immediately beneath the holes were stimulated to proliferate, and there seemed to be an increase in localized cell density.