Winston M. Chan | Faye D. Levina | Emerson M. Cruz
Discipline: medical sciences (non-specific)
PURPOSE: To report the first locally documented clinical case of a patient who had acute blepharokeratoconjunctivitis (BKC) after being exposed to Euphorbia trigona sap. The clinical presentation, disease progression, and treatment were compared to earlier published data. METHODS: Design: Case Study Setting: Tertiary Hospital Patient: 1 CASE REPORT: A 79-year-old female reported right eye redness, discomfort, and impaired vision three days after being exposed to the plant sap of Euphorbia trigona. The clinical results showed acute BKC, which was treated with topical antibiotics, steroids, and tear substitutes. By 21 days, signs and symptoms had been resolved. The patient regained good visual acuity with a clear and fully recovered cornea two months after exposure. CONCLUSIONS: Cases of acute toxic BKC following accidental exposure to Euphorbia plant sap are clinically relevant as they enhance diagnostic awareness and guide treatment strategies. Documenting rare occurrences assists in understanding the spectrum of potential complications associated with specific plants, such as the Euphorbia trigona. This can aid in early identification and diagnosis of similar cases, improving patient outcomes through prompt and appropriate management. Lastly, it can support the development of preventive measures and contribute to the overall understanding of the ocular toxicity associated with specific plant exposures.
ISSN 0031-7799 (Print)
Philippine E-Journals
