Corneal chalcosis following blast injury

Abstract

DISCUSSION Metallic foreign bodies such as iron and copper are known to produce specific effects in the eye due to their reactive properties, and hence they need removal in order to prevent visionthreatening complications. 1 4 5 Corneal foreign bodies containing copper may manifest diverse clinical pictures depending on the copper content. The metal may occasionally remain embedded in the cornea without exciting a reaction, 1 but if it is in relatively pure form, a localised purulent inflammation with necrosis of surrounding tissue may ensue. Within the eye, copper ion participates in two main processes: the oxidationereduction reaction and formation of free superoxide and hydroxide radicals. 5 The extent of the irreversible damage depends on the copper content of the foreign body, size, encapsulation, duration and host response.