Electron probe X-ray analysis of an intraocular foreign body

We describe a simple and rapid method of electron probe x-ray analysis on a foreign body removed from the eye. We demonstrated the presence of copper in an intraocular foreign body which has originated from a blank 0.22 calibre cartridge. Sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sulpher and chlorine were also detected. It seems likely that these elements were derived from the biological milieu in which the intraocular foreign body had rested for some 2 years and 9 months.