Agents Involved and Severity of Acute Ocular Exposure Reported at a Poison Control Center

Abstract

Purpose. Knowing the use categories of the products involved and on the circumstances of exposure, the aim was to identify severity factors useful in the initial management of patients in case of acute ocular exposure. Methods.A retrospective study over a one-year period, on patients having used a poison center for eye exposure to a chemical substance. Results.In one year, patients were concerned. The sex ratio (M/F) was 0.8. The mean age was 28.5 ± 20.3 years. Among children, those under 4 years represented the most significant age category (n= 277; 50.1%). Exposure to chemicals were mild (n= 1342, 84.8%). Adults over 65 years appeared to be more likely to have more severe ocular damage (OR: 4.75; [2.26; 9.98]). Unintentional exposures were the most frequent (n= 1548; 97.8%). Ocular exposure primarily occurred at home (n= 937; 59.2%) then at work (n= 396; 25%), but with a higher risk of severe injury (OR: 2.93 [2.16; 3.97]). Cleaning products accounted for 31.2% of exposure cases (n= 457).Exposure to disinfectants appears to be a risk factor in more severe injuries (OR: 1.48 [1.002; 2.19] p = 0.0472). PH and severity of injuries were not statistically associated. Conclusions.Our study showed the very wide variety in products involved in ocular exposures. Taking into account severity found, specific attention should be made by clinician on some of them like extreme ages, working exposure, and products like disinfectant and not only acid vs. base.

Seeing household chemicals through the eyes of children—Investigating influential factors of preschoolers’ perception and behavior

“…With roughly 15 reported accidental toxic exposures a day, these incidents are an important public health issue. Therefore, it is critical to understand when and how accidental exposure to household chemicals occurs and how we can prevent resulting injuries, such as poisonings and chemical burns of other organs (i.e., eye, skin;Le Roux et al, 2020;Williams et al, 2012). Previous research has found that the risk of unintentional injury in children can be significantly reduced by parental (e.g., supervision) or environmental (e.g., safeguarding) strategies (Morrongiello et al, 2004).…”