Introduction
Foreign bodies are usually in the form of small particles of metal, vegetable matter or insects which embed on surface of the eye.
Occasionally a high velocity material, usually a metal could be propelled into the eye.
Clinical features
Foreign body may be embedded on the tarsal conjunctiva, bulbar conjunctiva, and cornea or inside the eye.
Intraocular foreign body (IOFB)
- IOFBS may be in the anterior chamber, iris, lens or vitreous; on the retina or even behind the eyeball after doubly perforating the eye
Differential diagnoses
- Corneal abrasion
- Endophthalmitis
Complications
- Perforation of the eye
- Endophthalmitis
- Retinal toxicity from a metallic IOFB
Investigation
- Radiograph of the orbit with a localizing ring
Management
- Removal of subtarsal, conjunctival or corneal foreign body under magnification e.g. slit lamp microscope
Caution
- Ultrasound should be avoided in an eye with a perforating wound
Prevention
- Appropriate protective goggles for sports, welding, game hunting etc