Study clinical characteristics and the results with topical steroid in the treatment of ocular alkali burns

ABSTRACT

Background: Alkali burns are severe injuries of the eyes. Recently, using topical steroid in treatment of ocular alkali burns has provided better outcomes. However, there is no study on treating ocular alkali burns by topical steroid in Vietnam. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics and assess the outcome with topical steroid used in the treatment of ocular Alkali burns. Subject and Method: The author performed a prospective analysis of 45 alkali eye burns at the Trauma department of the National Institute of Ophalmology, Hanoi. All patients were treated with topical steroid and vitamin C. Results: There were 19 eyes were mild injures, 26 eyes were severe injuries. 32.5% had a good visual acuity. None of patients with severe injuries had a good visual acuity. Complications: corneal opacity: 42.2%, elevated IOP 17.8%. Conclusion: Treatment of ocular alkali burns with topical steroid and vitamin C is not associated with corneal perforating and provide a good outcome.