Corneal honey bee sting: endoilluminator-assisted removal of retained stinger

To report the clinical findings and a novel method of removal of bee sting using an endoillumination light source the following methods were used: clinical presentation, slit-lamp photographs, serial endothelial images and surgical management of a case of retained bee sting in the cornea. The bee sting was surgically removed by forceps under focal illumination with an endoillumination light source. Topical steroids and cycloplegics were given postoperatively to control the inflammation. The patient had complete visual recovery and partial resolution of endothelial changes after 1 year of treatment. The clinical picture of a corneal honey bee sting resembles keratouveitis. Focal corneal infiltrate and associated low-grade uveitis tend to persist if treated with topical steroids only. Early recognition and prompt removal of the stinger may help in the early resolution of anterior segment inflammation and prevent irreversible damage to endothelial cells.