Retained anterior chamber graphite foreign body with delayed inflammation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ophthalmic Pathology

Background:

• Intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) can cause significant visual impairment.
• Graphite IOFBs are often considered inert, with minimal risk of inflammation.

Observation:

• A 29-year-old female presented with acute vision blurring and eye redness.
• A retained graphite foreign body was identified in the anterior chamber.
• The patient reported a mechanical pencil injury 20 years prior.

Findings:

• This case represents the longest reported duration (20 years) of a retained anterior chamber graphite foreign body.
• Delayed inflammation and corneal endothelial damage occurred after two decades.

Implications:

• Graphite IOFBs may not always remain inert and can cause delayed complications.
• Ophthalmologists should consider delayed inflammatory responses in cases of chronic IOFBs.
• Long-term follow-up is crucial for patients with retained intraocular foreign bodies.