Open AccessCorneal toxicity after self-application of Calotropis procera (Ushaar) Latex: Case report and analysis of the active components
Author(s) -
Huda Al Ghadeer,
Ahmad Al Gethami,
Hamad Al Sulaiman,
Thamer Bukhari
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
middle east african journal of ophthalmology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.357
H-Index - 25
eISSN - 0975-1599
pISSN - 0974-9233
DOI - 10.4103/meajo.meajo_180_18
Subject(s) - calotropis procera , medicine , toxicity , visual acuity , ophthalmology , cornea , dermatology , surgery , traditional medicine
Calotropis procera (ushaar) produces a copious amount of latex, which has both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pharmacological properties. Local application produces an intense inflammatory response and causes significant ocular morbidity. We report corneal toxicity following self-application of latex from C. procera in a 74-year-old man. He reported painless decreased vision in the affected eye with diffuse corneal edema, and specular microscopy revealed a reduced endothelial cell count. After he was treated with topical corticosteroids, his visual acuity improved from hand motion to 20/80. The composition of the active compounds in the latex was analyzed. When topically administered, the latex may cause severe ocular injuries and a loss of endothelial cells over a period of time. Public education, early recognition of such injuries, and timely intervention may prevent permanent ocular damage.