Localisation of corneal foreign bodies

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Corneal foreign bodies (FB) are common presentations in eye casualty departments.
• Accurate localization of corneal FBs is crucial for effective treatment and minimizing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reliability of patient-reported sensations in localizing corneal foreign bodies (FB).
• To identify which reported sensations are accurate indicators of FB location.
• To propose a standardized method for recording FB location.

Main Methods:

• A study of 50 patients presenting with corneal foreign bodies (FB) to an eye casualty department.
• Patients were asked to report the location of their perceived FB sensation.
• Correlation between reported sensation location and actual FB location was analyzed.
• The influence of patient handedness on FB localization was assessed.

Main Results:

• 41 out of 50 patients could report a sensation location.
• 78% of reported locations were correct regarding the side or level of the cornea.
• Patient handedness did not significantly influence FB localization.
• Sensations in the palpebral fissure, lower lid, or medial/lateral aspects were accurate indicators.
• Indications of the upper lid were poor predictors of actual FB location.

Conclusions:

• Patient-reported sensations can be a valuable tool for localizing corneal foreign bodies (FB).
• Specific locations of reported sensation (palpebral fissure, lower lid, medial/lateral) correlate well with actual FB position.
• A simple, standardized method for recording FB location using zones and clock hours is proposed for improved clinical practice.