corneal foreign body

Headline
History - What type of foreign body? — e.g. dirt or organic material (higher risk of infection), glass, metal (rust ring may lead to inflammation and a corneal epithelial defect), inorganic material
- Velocity of impact? — e.g. angle grinders, high speed drilling and ‘weed eater’ injuries are at risk of corneal or scleral penetration.
- Symptoms? — foreign body sensation, tearing, blurred vision.
- Use of eye protection?
Examination Visual acuity as always
Look for rust ring
Tonometry?
> Distortion of the cornea, anterior chamber, iris, pupil or lens indicates ocular penetration
Diagnostic investigations Fluorescein examination - penetrating trauma, HZO
Differentials
Immediate management - Irrigate
- Topical LA → Remove FB if able - sterile cotton bud, beveled edge of a needle
- Tetanus prophylaxis only if penetrating trauma
Ongoing management Avoid wearing contact lens for >= 1/52 after defect fully healed or feels normal
- No contact lens: cipro/ofloxacin topical
- Yes contact lens: cover pseudomonas - levo/moxifloxacin, gent topical
- Analgesia

Abrasion vs ulcer

Abrasion Ulcer
Presentation Immediate pain Pain 2-3 days after event
Visible on fluorescein exam? Yes Yes
Visible on white light? No Yes
Lesion looks... Linear, punctate, patterned or irregular Often circular