Chemical Keratopathy: Caught on the Hop

Chemical injuries of the eye can range from mild to severe and can present with variable signs and symptoms depending upon the tissue involved and the chemical agent. The involvement of the cornea in chemical injuries can be detrimental to the vision if not diagnosed promptly. But sometimes delayed presentations can be seen that may confuse the clinical picture. This chapter focuses on highlighting one such case where during an assault on an army veteran, an unknown substance was rubbed into his eyes. He presented to our clinic 3 months after the episode with complaints of diminution of vision. Upon investigation, he was found to have deposits of the unknown powdery substance buried in his cornea. He was managed with phototherapeutic keratectomy. The pointers to the diagnosis of the case and tips for management are highlighted in this chapter.