title: Snake venom ophthalmia and blindness caused by the spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) in Nigeria.
abstract: Venom entered the eyes of 9 patients spat at by the spitting cobra, Naja nigricollis. In 5 the only effect was a simple conjunctivitis but 4 had corneal ulceration, 1 developed anterior uveitis indicating absorption of venom in the anterior chamber, and 2 were permanently blinded. Treatment of this rare emergency is discussed: immediate irrigation of the eye with water, careful examination for corneal abrasion, and prevention of secondary infection are recommended. The value of local specific antivenom is unproven.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001766:Blindness / Q000209:etiology*; D003231:Conjunctivitis / Q000209:etiology; D003320:Corneal Ulcer / Q000209:etiology; D009877:Endophthalmitis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005392:First Aid; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009549:Nigeria; D012910:Snake Venoms; D012911:Snakes; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation
chemical_list: D012910:Snake Venoms