Related Experiment Videos
Persistent conjunctivitis associated with drinking arsenic-contaminated water
Krishnapada Baidya1, Akash Raj, Lakshmikanta Mondal
1Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Medical College and Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
Summary
Chronic conjunctivitis and skin lesions in two family members were linked to long-term consumption of arsenic-contaminated well water. Treatment with dimercaprol and multivitamins, alongside avoiding contaminated water, resolved these arsenic-induced health issues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Chronic conjunctivitis can manifest from various environmental exposures.
- Arsenic contamination in drinking water poses significant public health risks.
Observation:
- Two family members presented with bilateral chronic conjunctivitis and severe dermatological changes, including hyperkeratosis and raindrop lesions.
- Elevated arsenic levels were detected in the patients' hair and nails, and the drinking water exceeded permissible arsenic limits.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed a papillary inflammatory response in the conjunctiva.
- Conventional treatments for conjunctivitis were ineffective; symptoms resolved only after chelation therapy with dimercaprol, multivitamin supplementation, and cessation of exposure to contaminated water.
Implications:
- This case series highlights a rare association between chronic arsenic exposure from drinking water and bilateral papillary conjunctivitis.
- Successful management with dimercaprol and multivitamins suggests a potential therapeutic strategy for arsenic-induced ocular and dermatological conditions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms linking arsenic accumulation to conjunctival papillary response.