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. CONCLUSION: 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.