A classic complication of RGP contact lenses that ride too high is called which of the following?

• A. Giant papillary conjunctivitis
• B. Corneal edema
• C. Corneal warpage
• D. Subepithelial infiltrates

Answer: (C)

Corneal warpage is the classic change when a rigid gas-permeable lens sits too high on the cornea. The lens’s angled and high position can mechanically indent and reshape the corneal surface, producing irregular astigmatism and altered curvature that are usually reversible after the lens is removed for an extended period. This mechanical distortion distinguishes it from inflammatory or hypoxia-related issues seen with contact lens wear. For example, giant papillary conjunctivitis is an inflammatory conjunctival reaction, corneal edema is swelling from oxygen or endothelial stress, and subepithelial infiltrates are immune-related corneal changes—not the result of the lens riding high.