FOREIGN BODIES IN THE CORNEA.
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.