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1976•American Journal of Tropical Medicine and HygieneRequires access

Snake Venom Ophthalmia and Blindness Caused by the Spitting Cobra (Naja Nigricollis) in Nigeria

David A. Warrell, L. David Ormerod

Open publisher page 99 citations

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.

About this research paper

What this paper is about

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.

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OpenAlex reports 99 citations for this work. Citation counts describe recorded attention and do not establish research quality.

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Available 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.

Key concepts: Cobra, Medicine, Antivenom, Dermatology, Naja, Corneal abrasion, Uveitis, Venom

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Snake Venom Ophthalmia and Blindness Caused by the Spitting Cobra (Naja Nigricollis) in Nigeria — Research Paper | ScholarLens