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Hyphema caused by a metallic intraocular foreign body during magnetic resonance imaging
1Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California 94305-5308, USA.
Purpose:
To report a 63-year-old man with a retained intraocular foreign body who developed a hyphema during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain.
Methods:
Case report and review of the current literature on ocular injury caused by intraocular foreign bodies when subjected to an electromagnetic field.
Results:
Our patient underwent a brain MRI, and the intraocular foreign body caused a hyphema and increased intraocular pressure. The presence and location of the intraocular foreign body were determined by computed tomography (CT).
Conclusion:
Magnetic resonance imaging can cause serious ocular injury in patients with ferromagnetic intraocular foreign bodies. This case demonstrates the importance of obtaining an occupational history, and, when indicated, a skull x-ray or CT to rule out intraocular foreign body before an MRI study.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can cause serious eye injury in patients with ferromagnetic intraocular foreign bodies, leading to hyphema. Screening for foreign bodies before MRI is crucial to prevent potential ocular trauma.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) pose a risk during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to strong magnetic fields.
- Ferromagnetic IOFBs can be displaced or cause injury when exposed to electromagnetic fields.
- Patient safety in MRI requires careful consideration of potential projectile risks.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old man developed a hyphema and elevated intraocular pressure during a brain MRI.
- The patient had a retained intraocular foreign body, later confirmed by computed tomography (CT).
- The IOFB's movement within the eye during MRI is presumed to have caused the hyphema.
Findings:
- MRI examination of a patient with an intraocular foreign body resulted in acute hyphema and increased intraocular pressure.
- Computed tomography (CT) successfully identified the presence and location of the intraocular foreign body.
- The case highlights the direct link between ferromagnetic IOFBs and MRI-induced ocular complications.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers must screen patients for potential intraocular foreign bodies before MRI.
- Occupational history and imaging (X-ray or CT) are vital for ruling out IOFBs in at-risk individuals.
- Implementing rigorous pre-MRI safety protocols can prevent severe ocular injuries from ferromagnetic foreign bodies.