Mass photokeratitis following ultraviolet light exposure at a nightclub

Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2016 Aug;39(4):316-7. doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2016.01.009. Epub 2016 Feb 2.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a mass presentation of photokeratitis arising from exposure to an unprotected ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light source.

Results: A cluster of 22 patients presented within a 24-h period to a single eye casualty with symptoms of photokeratitis following recent intense UV-B exposure at a local nightclub. Patients were treated with a short course of chloramphenicol, steroid or lubricant eye drops. No patients re-attended.

Conclusion: This report highlights the hazards of ultraviolet lamps used in public places and the need for strict guidance and enforcement of UV radiation safety protocols to avoid the potential public health risk.

Keywords: Arc eye; Photokeratitis; Public health; Ultraviolet radiation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Chloramphenicol / therapeutic use
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Keratitis / drug therapy
  • Keratitis / etiology*
  • Leisure Activities*
  • Lighting / adverse effects*
  • Lubricant Eye Drops / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Mass Casualty Incidents / prevention & control*
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / etiology*
  • Steroids / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Lubricant Eye Drops
  • Steroids
  • Chloramphenicol