Self-inflicted penetrating eye injuries using a razor blade: case report.
BACKGROUND
A 23 year old white male with a history of social and behavioural problems attempted to blind himself chemically, with alcohol, and mechanically, with a razor blade.


METHODS
Observational case report of a patient who self-inflicted bilateral scleral lacerations with a razor blade, after losing his job.


RESULTS
The patient sustained bilateral inferior scleral perforations, with hypotony and a right traumatic cataract. He received urgent surgical repair, and prophylactic antibiotics. There were no retinal breaks or detachments. He later underwent successful cataract surgery to the right eye.


CONCLUSIONS
Self-inflicted ocular injury may be possible in non-psychotic patients, as a situational response to a life event. Urgent repair can completely restore vision in some cases. Referral for psychiatric counseling is mandatory.
Razavi
Hessom
H
International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK. hessom.razavi@gmail.com
Price
Nicholas
N
D002386:Cataract / Q000209:etiology; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D015807:Eye Injuries, Penetrating / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012590:Sclera / Q000293:injuries*; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery; D014478:Unemployment / Q000523:psychology; D055815:Young Adult