CLINICAL OUTCOMES AND EVALUATION OF CHEMICAL INJURIES OF THE EYE

Abstract

Background: Ocular chemical injuries are a true ocular emergency and require immediate and intensive evaluation and treatment. The sequels of chemical injury may have signicant detrimental visual and psychological effects on the affected individual. Effective diagnosis and treatment within time following the initial injury often dictate the clinical course and can prevent tragic consequences. The aim of the present study is to study the clinical prole & visual outcome of ocular chemical injuries A Methodology: descriptive observational study was carried out including 100 eyes of 78 patients after meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history was taken and thorough ocular examination was carried out pertaining to the injury. Visual acuity was recorded by Snellen's chart. Clinical grading was done by Roper Hall Classication. Ocular investigations were done when required. Patients were managed medically and/ or surgically. Final visual outcome and slit lamp ndings were noted at Day 1,1 Week, 1 Month and 3 months for each affected eye. The Results: study included 77% (60) males and 23% (18) females. Mean age was 25 ± 10 yrs. Alkali injuries (68%) was more common than acid injuries (32%). Calcium carbonate (lime) 35% was the most common etiological agent. 56% cases had unilateral involvement. Maximum patients belonged to grade 1 (51%) followed by grade II (27%) and minimum to grade IV (7%). Final visual outcome was found to be dependent on initial grade and visual acuity. Presenting visual acuity and grade are important prognosti Conclusion: c factors. Higher grades of injuries (grade III and IV) have poorer outcomes than grade I and II. Final visual acuity is also dependent on grade of injury and presenting visual acuity.