HPLC analysis of tear proteins in giant papillary conjunctivitis.

Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is a well defined entity seen in patients with deposits on their lenses. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) tear protein analysis was performed on 17 GPC patients and compared with healthy controls with and without contact lenses. The IgA levels are somewhat lower in GPC patients as compared with healthy controls not wearing lenses (P less than 0.05). A similar decrease was also seen in the control group wearing contact lenses. We were not able to identify a specific HPLC tear protein profile in GPC patients as compared with controls. The HPLC profile therefore gives no explanation for the lens deposits and is not suitable as a diagnostic or prognostic tool.