Related Experiment Videos
Corneal abrasions associated with pepper spray exposure
L Brown1, D Takeuchi, K Challoner
1Department of Emergency Medicine, WakeMed, Raleigh, NC 27620, USA. lbrownmd@aol.com
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|June 1, 2000
Summary
Pepper spray (oleoresin capsicum) can cause corneal abrasions, not just deter. Emergency physicians should suspect and examine for these eye injuries in exposed patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Emergency Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Pepper spray, containing oleoresin capsicum, is a common nonlethal deterrent.
- Corneal abrasion is a potential injury associated with pepper spray exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the frequency of corneal abrasions resulting from pepper spray exposure.
- To inform emergency physicians about the likelihood of encountering such injuries.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive retrospective review of a physician-maintained log.
- Analysis of 100 cases of pepper spray exposure over a 3-year period.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 100 patients (7%) experienced corneal abrasions after pepper spray exposure.
- Corneal abrasions were identified as a notable complication.
Conclusions:
- Corneal abrasions are a significant risk following pepper spray exposure.
- Recommend fluorescein staining and slit lamp/Wood's lamp examination for suspected corneal abrasions in exposed individuals.