Superficial corneal foreign bodies: A series of 90 cases

Introduction: Superficial corneal foreign bodies represent a frequent reason for consultation in ophthalmological emergencies and are a cause of unilateral visual impairment. The aim of our work is to study the epidemiologist of the occurrence of ocular trauma of the anterior segment and highlight the potential risk incurred by manual workers. Material and methods: This is a descriptive and prospective study, carried out from September 2021 to December 2021, in the ophthalmological emergencies department of the hospital 20 August 1953 in Casablanca. The inclusion criteria were corneal foreign bodies occurring at the workplace. Results: Our study involved 90 patients, averaging 31.8 years old (ranging from 20 to 64 years), predominantly male. The metallurgical industry represented 62.2% of cases in the professional sector. Issues regarding protective measures were notable, with 60% reporting unused protective gear, 30% using inadequate protection, and 10% lacking access to protective equipment. Foreign bodies were found in paraaxial locations in 60% of cases, axial in 20%, peripheral in 20%, and limbic in 10%. Metallic foreign bodies accounted for 65.5% of cases, while non-metallic ones accounted for 34.5%. Complications included corneal opacity in 30% of cases, corneal wounds or scalp in 11%, corneal abscesses in 5%, cataracts in 6%, and endophthalmitis in 3% of cases. Discussion: Foreign bodies in the anterior segment are common. Speed and point of entry determine the site at which a foreign body comes to rest. The non-metallic foreign bodies generally have a lower velocity than metallic foreign bodies and once they have penetrated the cornea, tend to remain in the anterior segment. Conclusion: Superficial corneal foreign bodies are a significant cause of vision loss and blindness. The use of appropriate protective eyewear is an excellent means of protection which is simple and effective, hence the need for good awareness in workplaces at risk.