Acute management of ocular chemical burns: A review

Abstract

Ocular chemical burns are produced by irritants, acids or alkalis. Their severity depends on the type of the causative chemical substance, its concentration, its physical form, the duration of contact, the ocular surface area affected and the delay in medical attention. Severe cases can be difficult to manage posing a challenge for general practitioners and ophthalmology specialists. This review aims to describe a protocol of action for their immediate management since they are ophthalmic emergencies which can lead to fatal ocular consequences without adequate medical treatment, impacting on the health, quality of life and labor productivity of the patient.