The CMGs offer information on the diagnosis and management of a range of conditions that present with varying frequency in primary and first contact care.
Corneal (or other superficial ocular) foreign body is one of the most common ophthalmic injuries. It usually only affects the superficial cornea, but can cause a penetrating injury with scarring and, potentially, visual impairment. Symptoms include irritation, photophobia, lacrimation, blurred vision and red eye. This Clinical Management Guideline outlines the aetiology, signs and symptoms and evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and treating corneal foreign body. It outlines non-pharmacological management approaches including recommendations of safe and effective removal and pharmacological treatment options.
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What is a foreign body?
Small foreign bodies often enter the eye. Usually these are blinked away but sometimes they stick to the surface of the cornea (the clear window of the eye). This is more likely if they enter at high speed, for example when blown in by the wind or when they result from hammering, grinding, other DIY and gardening activities.
How are foreign bodies managed?
If a foreign body sticks to the cornea it can be removed by the optometrist with a delicate instrument after the surface of the eye has been numbed by an anaesthetic drop. If the foreign body is iron-based, it may have quickly rusted on the eye surface, in which case the rust will need to be removed also. If there is a likelihood of infection, antibiotic drops and/or ointment may be prescribed. Patients will be referred to the ophthalmologist (eye doctor) only if the foreign body has penetrated below the surface or is likely to cause corneal scarring.