Work

First Design of a Contact Lens for Diagnosis of Dehydration

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Dehydration is a serious medical problem for elder patients and young children. The most widely used diagnostics are measurements of sodium-ion (Na+) and potassium-ion (K+) in blood serum. Dehydration is difficult to diagnose even by trained health care professionals because the body compensates to maintain the appearance of skin. These measurements required a blood draw because specific tests are generally not available for only Na+ and K+. The blood samples are analyzed by an electrolyte panel (EP) or a basic metabolic panel (BMP). Most hospitals limit EP and BMP to one per day to control costs. More frequent measurements of Na+ and K+ are needed, especially during rehydration. We designed on a fluorescent contact lens (NaK-CL) that can provide the Na+ and K+ concentrations as needed or for continuous monitoring. The measurements are obtained from the fluorescent lifetime or wavelength-ratiometric intensities of the Na+ and K+ sensitive fluorophores. The NaK-CL does not contain electronic components and are inexpensive to prepare.

Source: Biosensors

DOI: 10.3390/bios15080532

Authors: Kundan Sivashanmugan, E. Albert Reece, Joseph R Lakowicz

Institution: University of Maryland, Baltimore

Language: English

Topic: Analytical Chemistry and Sensors

Subfield: Bioengineering

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,654