CORNEAL ULCERATION FOLLOWING DELAYED INTERVENTION OF A METALLIC FOREIGN BODY: A CASE STUDY ANALYSIS

Abstract

The 42-year-old male patient industrial worker suffered complications in eyes due to delayed treatment for foreign metallic body which was residing in the cornea; the patient first tried an attempt of self-medication by washing with tap water after exposure of iron in a metal fabricating industry which worsened his complaint and further delay professional advice. On examination, a metallic foreign body was found in his right cornea along with surrounding stromal edema and a corneal ulcer measuring 1.5 mm x 1.2 mm. Delay in presentation allowed the colonisation of pathogens leading to mild, sterile corneal ulcer and anterior chamber reaction. Treatment included the immediate removal of the foreign body under slit-lamp view, with a treatment regimen that was to be followed using Moxifloxacin 0.5% to cover bacterial infection and Natamycin 5% to address possible fungal contamination. The patient was further treated with a cycloplegic agent in addition to lubricating eye drops for inflammation reduction as well as healing of the cornea. He was also instructed on proper usage of first aid measures with particular reference to wearing of protective eyewear during industrial work as preventive measures against this similar occurrence from happening in the future. This case highlights the very high risks of delayed intervention in ocular injuries and the high incidence of complications from improper self-management, especially in an industrial setup. If foreign bodies had not been removed promptly and targeted antimicrobial therapy was not used, the prognosis for this patient would have been much worse as seen in the complete resolution of the ulcer and restoration of 6/6 visual acuity in both eyes. The report would point out the work-place safety protocols, protective equipment, and early professional intervention in preventing long-term ocular morbidity.