Optic disc swelling associated with retained metallic intraocular foreign body

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ophthalmic Surgery
• Toxicology

Background:

• Intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) can lead to significant ocular complications.
• Optic disc swelling, or papilledema, is a concerning sign requiring prompt investigation.
• Metallic IOFBs may pose unique risks due to potential toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of optic disc swelling secondary to a metallic intraocular foreign body.
• To discuss the potential mechanisms, including local toxicity, causing optic disc swelling in such cases.
• To highlight the importance of considering IOFBs in the differential diagnosis of optic disc edema.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a male patient in his 40s with a metallic IOFB.
• Surgical removal of the IOFB via vitrectomy.
• Clinical monitoring of optic disc swelling resolution post-operatively.
• Literature review for similar cases of IOFB-associated optic disc swelling.

Main Results:

• A metallic IOFB was successfully removed from the retinal surface.
• Post-operative resolution of optic disc swelling was observed.
• Literature search identified only one prior report linking retained IOFB to optic disc swelling in ocular siderosis.

Conclusions:

• Metallic IOFBs can cause optic disc swelling, potentially due to a localized toxic effect.
• Vitrectomy is an effective surgical intervention for IOFB removal and subsequent resolution of optic disc edema.
• This case underscores the need to consider IOFB as a cause of optic disc swelling, even outside of generalized siderosis.