Snake venom ophthalmia.
Sajid Adhi RAJA and Kenneth Yuh Yen KOK
Department of Ophthalmology, PMMPMHAMB Hospital, Tutong, Brunei Darussalam
ABSTRACT
Snake venom ophthalmia is an acute reaction of the ocular surface tissues to venom ejected into the eyes of spitting cobra victims. The condition is uncommon and the victim may be frightful of going blind. However permanent vision loss is rare. This case (40-year-old man) is reported to discuss the management protocol in such cases. Immediate copious irrigation of the eye is the most important management measure. Topical antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary keratitis. Local or systemic anti-venom, topical heparin or corticosteroids are contraindicated in the management of this uncommon form of envenoming.
Keywords: Cobra venom, management, ophthalmia
Correspondence author: KYY KOK, PMMPMHAMB Hospital, Tutong, Brunei Darussalam.
Tel: +673 8671072 or +673 2232024, E mail: koky@brunet.bn
Brunei Int Med J. 2011; 7 (6): 332-335