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Intraocular caterpillar setae without subsequent vitritis or iridocyclitis
Michael S Ibarra1, Stephen E Orlin, Bruce R Saran
1Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 4, 2002
Summary
Caterpillar setae embedded in a child's cornea and retina caused minimal inflammation and no vision loss. The foreign bodies were tolerated without surgical intervention, highlighting a conservative management approach for ocular foreign bodies.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Foreign Body Injury
Background:
- Caterpillar setae (hairs) can cause ocular irritation and injury upon contact.
- Ocular foreign bodies, especially organic material, often elicit significant inflammatory responses.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old boy presented with a red eye after caterpillar exposure.
- Examination revealed caterpillar setae embedded in the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, and retina.
- No significant intraocular inflammation (iridocyclitis or vitritis) was observed.
Findings:
- Despite intraretinal and corneal setae presence, the patient remained asymptomatic with minimal inflammation.
- No invasive intervention was required; topical corticosteroids were tapered off.
- Vitreous membranes formed near the intraretinal setae over a 4-month follow-up period.
Implications:
- Embedded caterpillar setae in the cornea and retina can be asymptomatic and well-tolerated.
- Conservative management without surgical removal may be a viable option for such ocular foreign bodies.
- This case suggests that the host's inflammatory response to setae can be minimal, even with intraretinal penetration.