Ophthalmia nodosa

Ophthalmia nodosa
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Ophthalmology
Symptoms	Eye pain, redness, tearing, foreign body sensation
Complications	Corneal ulcer, uveitis, endophthalmitis
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Caterpillar hairs, insect hairs
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, history of exposure
Differential diagnosis	Conjunctivitis, keratitis, blepharitis
Prevention	Avoidance of exposure to caterpillars and insects
Treatment	Removal of hairs, topical corticosteroids, antibiotics
Medication
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Ophthalmia nodosa is a rare eye condition that occurs when the eye comes into contact with certain types of irritant hairs, bristles, or fibers. This condition is often associated with exposure to certain types of caterpillars or other insects, but can also be caused by exposure to certain types of plants or other materials.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ophthalmia nodosa can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of irritant involved. Common symptoms can include:

• Redness of the eye
• Pain in the eye
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Tearing or discharge from the eye
• Swelling of the eye or eyelid

Causes

Ophthalmia nodosa is caused by exposure to certain types of irritant hairs, bristles, or fibers. These can come from a variety of sources, including:

• Certain types of caterpillars or other insects
• Certain types of plants
• Certain types of fibers or bristles

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ophthalmia nodosa is typically based on the patient's symptoms and history of exposure to potential irritants. In some cases, a slit lamp examination may be used to examine the eye in more detail.

Treatment

Treatment for ophthalmia nodosa typically involves removing the irritant from the eye and treating the symptoms. This can include:

• Eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation and pain
• Steroids to reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics to prevent or treat infection
• Surgery in severe cases to remove the irritant

Prevention

Prevention of ophthalmia nodosa involves avoiding exposure to the irritants that can cause the condition. This can include wearing protective eyewear when in areas where these irritants are present.

See also

• Eye diseases
• Eye injury
• Inflammation