PURPOSE To report a case of caterpillar setae penetration into anterior chamber and anterior uveitis caused by the caterpillar setae.
METHODS A 14-year-old boy was struck in his right eye by a caterpillar 5 months ago. Severe conjunctival congestion, chemosis and decreased visual acuity of the right eye developed immediately. Recurrent attack of anterior uveitis was secondary to the caterpillar setae penetration. (Figure 1).Two setae fragment were found to be encapsulated by inflammatory exudation in the inferior anterior chamber angle.(Figure 2) Anterior uveitis was treated with antibiotic medication (along with local anti-inflammatory and cycloplegic angents).
RESULTS After removal of the setae under a microscope, the inflammation subsided (Figure 3-5)and visual acuity improved to RE:20/20.
Conclusion Caterpillar setae are sharp enough to penetrate the cornea and extend into the anterior chamber. Uveitis was often caused by the setae, it is imperative to remove the setae for relieveing the uveitis. |