An update on chemical eye burns.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Ocular chemical injuries present a spectrum of severity with significant visual and medicolegal consequences.
• Effective grading is crucial for acute treatment and prognosis, yet challenges persist in immediate management and patient adherence.
• Preventive measures like protective eyewear and immediate irrigation remain key public health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical role of prompt and appropriate management in ocular chemical injuries.
• To highlight the advancements in treating chronic ocular disease, particularly through limbal stem cell transplantation.
• To underscore the importance of prevention, education, and tertiary referral in managing severe ocular chemical injuries.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on ocular chemical injury management.
• Analysis of treatment strategies for acute and chronic phases of ocular chemical injuries.
• Discussion of challenges in acute management, including evidence base and patient adherence.

Main Results:

• Poor immediate management complicates acute disease treatment and leads to resistant chronic conditions.
• Limbal stem cell transplantation has significantly improved outcomes in the chronic phase.
• Tertiary referral is increasingly vital for patients with limbal stem cell failure or scarring.

Conclusions:

• Timely and effective management of ocular chemical injuries is paramount for visual preservation.
• Preventive strategies and patient education are essential public health priorities.
• Advanced treatments and specialized referral are critical for managing severe and chronic ocular chemical injuries.