In case of penetration of the cornea by thorns, thistles, glass, metal,
etc., there usually follows inflammation with a red area around the
offending object. If the foreign body is a piece of iron there is a
brownish area caused by iron oxide. Focal or transillumination will
usually reveal the object. Should both fail, a solution of fluorescin
when applied will develop a greenish area around it.
_Treatment_ may be made as advised by Gould by pressing a little
antiseptic cotton to the front of the eye, so as to entangle and
withdraw the foreign body when the eyeball is rolled. Failing in this we
may cocainize the eye and remove the offending object with a small
curette or spud. A careful focal illumination of the eye will enable the
operator to see and remove the smallest particles without injury.
Subsequent treatment is that of wounds.