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Ocular injuries in children
I Murithi1, S Gichuhi, M W Njuguna
1Department of Ophthalmology, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
East African Medical Journal
|June 12, 2008
Summary
Pediatric eye injuries are severe, often caused by sticks, and disproportionately affect young children in low-income areas. Delays in care and inadequate initial treatment lead to poor visual outcomes, highlighting the need for injury prevention programs.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Public Health
Background:
- Eye injuries in children represent a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the epidemiology and referral patterns is crucial for improving care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology, referral system, and visual outcomes of pediatric eye injuries.
- To identify factors contributing to poor outcomes and inform prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series conducted at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Nairobi, Kenya.
- Inclusion of children aged up to 15 years hospitalized for eye injuries between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2004.
- Analysis of injury causes, injury severity, referral delays, initial medical care, hospitalization details, and visual outcomes.
Main Results:
- 182 cases of pediatric eye injuries were analyzed, with a 2:1 male to female ratio.
- Sticks were the most common cause (35%), and 70% of injuries were open-globe.
- 77% presented with visual acuity worse than 6/60, with significant delays in reaching KNH and inadequate care at referring centers.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric eye injuries at KNH are severe, predominantly affecting pre-school children from low-income backgrounds.
- Delayed presentation and insufficient initial management at referring facilities contribute to poor visual outcomes.
- Despite poor initial outcomes, some visual improvement was noted, emphasizing the need for targeted injury-prevention programs.
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