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Caterpillar induced kerato-conjunctivitis
I Vissenberg1, P Raus, T Van Tittelboom
1Department of Ophtalmology, University Hospital of Antwerp.
Bulletin De La Societe Belge D'Ophtalmologie
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Caterpillar hairs cause severe eye inflammation called caterpillar keratoconjunctivitis. These barbed hairs penetrate ocular tissues, leading to granulomatous reactions and persistent inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Caterpillar hairs are known to cause ocular irritation and inflammation.
- Caterpillar keratoconjunctivitis, though described historically, remains an infrequent condition.
Observation:
- A recent case presented with conjunctival and surrounding skin involvement, manifesting as a significant erythematous rash.
- The patient's condition involved severe inflammation of the eye and adjacent skin.
Findings:
- Caterpillar hairs, with their barbed structure, easily penetrate ocular tissues, proving difficult to extract.
- The presence of these foreign bodies triggers recurrent inflammatory responses, often progressing to granulomatous disease.
- This granulomatous reaction to caterpillar hairs in corneal tissue is termed keratitis nodosum.
Implications:
- Understanding the mechanism of ocular injury from caterpillar hairs is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management.
- The persistent inflammatory nature of this condition necessitates awareness among ophthalmologists and dermatologists.
- Keratitis nodosum highlights the potential for severe, long-term consequences from environmental exposures.