Which statement is true about enzymatic cleaners safety in the eye?

• A. GP enzymatic cleaners should never be instilled into the eye
• B. GP enzymatic cleaners are safe to place in the eye
• C. GP enzymatic cleaners can be used if diluted
• D. GP enzymatic cleaners are identical to disinfectants

Answer: (A)

Enzymatic cleaners are used to break down protein deposits on gas-permeable lenses as part of the cleaning routine, not to be placed in the eye. They contain enzymes and cleaning agents that are not sterile for ocular tissues, so instilling them can irritate or injure the eye and may lead to inflammation or keratitis. If any enzymatic cleaner contacts the eye, it should be flushed with sterile saline and medical advice should be sought. These cleaners are not safe to place in the eye, even when diluted, and they are not the same as disinfectants, which are used to kill microbes rather than to remove deposits. The safest guidance is to never instill enzymatic cleaners into the eye.