Corneal inflammation from pine processionary caterpillar hairs.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Toxicology
• Entomology

Background:

• The pine processionary moth caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) inhabits pine forests in southern Europe.
• Its urticating hairs can cause a range of ocular disorders, from mild keratoconjunctivitis to severe reactions.

Observation:

• Three cases illustrate the spectrum of corneal responses to embedded caterpillar hairs.
• Manifestations included acute keratitis with and without vision loss, and asymptomatic corneal infiltrates.

Findings:

• Embedded caterpillar hairs can lead to corneal infiltrates.
• These infiltrates typically resolve over time.
• Topical steroid treatment appears to accelerate the resolution of corneal infiltrates.

Implications:

• Ocular exposure to pine processionary moth caterpillar hairs necessitates prompt ophthalmological evaluation.
• Understanding the range of presentations is crucial for appropriate management.
• Steroid therapy can be beneficial in managing associated keratitis.