Pattern of Pediatric Ocular Trauma in Kashan

BACKGROUND: Ocular trauma is a significant health problem in pediatric patients. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of ocular-trauma-related hospitalization of children in Kashan. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 131 children aged less than 16 years with ocular trauma, who were admitted to the Matini Hospital at the Kashan University of Medical Sciences between April 2006 and March 2009. After admission, detailed ocular examination was performed, and their ocular trauma was classified according to the International Ocular Trauma Classification and Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology systems. RESULTS: Mean age of the patients was 7.8 ± 2.2 years (age range, 0–16 years), and male to female ratio 5:1. The most common cause of admission was hyphema (38.1%), followed by corneoscleral laceration (27.5%). Ocular trauma most commonly occurred at home (43%), and 69% of the patients presented to the emergency room within 24 h of injury. In 30% of the patients, initial visual acuity at the time of presentation was less than 20/200 (Figure 1). CONCLUSIONS: Ocular trauma is a major cause of unilateral blindness, especially in young boys, and hence, preventive measures and education is required.