OCULAR TOXICITY BY LATEX OF CALOTROPIS PROCERA IN RAJASTHAN

AIM: 1 document the spectrum of ocular toxicity of calotropis procera, its complications, prevention and management. 2 Make aware or educate the field workers about the toxic effects of calotropis procera latex. METHODS: A retrospective study of 25 patients those presented with accidental ocular contact or injury with latex of calotropis procera in our hospital between October 2013 to September 2014 was done. Detailed history and ocular examinations like BCVA on presentation, slit lamp examination, conjunctival and corneal involvement including fluorescein staining and IOP measurement were carried out for each patient. RESULTS: All patients were presented with painless blurring of vision with burning sensations and photophobia. All eyes had conjunctival congestion and mild to severe corneal edema with descements folds. Most of the patients were male, agriculture workers and presented within 24 hours of injury. 84% patients had BCVA at presentation less than or equal to 20/40.20% eyes had iridocyclitis and 12% had associated secondary glaucoma. After treatment with topical antibiotic, steroids, cycloplegics, antiglaucoma agents, hypertonic saline and tear supplements, 88% patients recovered completely within 3 to 7 days. CONCLUTIONS: Calotropis procera latex causes significant ocular morbidity which can be prevented by simple health education.