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Fernando Pellerano, MS-V Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) School of Medicine
Chemical
burns represent potentially blinding ocular injuries and constitute a
true ocular emergency requiring immediate assessment and initiation of
treatment. The sequelae of an ocular burn can be severe and particularly
challenging to manage. An appropriate initial emergency management may
be the most important factor in determining visual outcome.[1]
Chemical eye injuries can occur from any exogenous material contacting the eye. This includes alkalis (e.g., lye, cements, plasters, airbag powder, bleach, and ammonia), acids (e.g., battery acid, pool cleaner, and vinegar), solvents, detergents, and irritants (e.g., mace).[2] Severity of the eye injury depends on the pH, concentration, and the nature of the chemical.
Chemical eye injuries can occur from any exogenous material contacting the eye. This includes alkalis (e.g., lye, cements, plasters, airbag powder, bleach, and ammonia), acids (e.g., battery acid, pool cleaner, and vinegar), solvents, detergents, and irritants (e.g., mace).[2] Severity of the eye injury depends on the pH, concentration, and the nature of the chemical.
