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Calotropis procera (ushaar) keratitis.
Hani S Al-Mezaine1, Ali A Al-Rajhi, Abdullah Al-Assiri
1Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. meddir@awalnet.net.sa
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 18, 2005
Summary
Milky latex from Calotropis procera (ushaar) can penetrate the cornea, causing permanent endothelial cell damage. While corneal edema may resolve, the cell loss persists, impacting vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Corneal Science
Background:
- Calotropis procera (ushaar) latex is known for its potent biological effects.
- Ocular exposure to plant-based toxins can lead to severe visual impairment.
Observation:
- A case report details a 40-year-old patient experiencing painless corneal edema after exposure to ushaar latex.
- Minimal epithelial injury was noted despite significant underlying corneal involvement.
Findings:
- Intracorneal penetration of ushaar latex was confirmed via microscopy.
- Permanent endothelial cell loss and morphologic alterations were observed.
- Corneal edema resolved within two weeks, but endothelial cell damage persisted.
Implications:
- Ushaar latex poses a risk of permanent corneal endothelial damage.
- Endothelial cell viability is crucial for edema resolution in ushaar keratitis.
- This highlights the need for prompt recognition and management of ushaar-induced ocular injuries.