The analysis of cases with eye injury caused by mineral spirits

Abstract

Objective To analyze the treatment and prevention of eye injury caused by mineral spirits vapour. Methods Ten eyes of 6 cases with eye injury caused by mineral spirits vapour were given saline thoroughly rinsing the conjunctival sac. Nine eyes of 5 cases received corneal epithelial curettage combined with bandage contact lens; one eye of 1 case was underwent amniotic membrane transplantation first, and then accepted the combined surgery. The changes of endothelial cells were observed postoperatively. Results Except 2 eyes of 1 case with corneal endothelial decompensation, 8 eyes of 5 patients were cured. Their corneal fluorescein staining not colored, and restore transparency, no clouds form, vision returned to normal and corneal endothelial cells without significant change. Conclusion Mineral spirits vapour can induce corneal epithelial degeneration and endothelial damage. Corneal epithelial scrape combined with bandage contact lens is effective treatment for mineral spirits injury and can significantly shorten the healing time of corneal epithelium. Key words: Mineral spirits, volatile; Corneal injury , chemical burn; Treatment