Burn Injuries of the Eye

This chapter discusses eye pathology frequently seen in the burn unit. It begins with a discussion of the relevant anatomy and histology. Eye examination in the burn unit is described, along with tips particularly applicable to critically-ill patients in the intensive care unit. The spectrum commonly-observed ocular surface disease with associated histopathological findings is described along with the predictive value of early findings such as eyelid burns and singed eyelashes. Salient features of special cases, such as electrical injury and toxic epidermal necrolysis are covered. The diagnosis and treatment of bacterial, viral and fungal corneal ulcers is discussed. Several acute and reconstructive surgical techniques that the burn surgeon may find useful for sight preservation are also described.