Caterpillar setae in the deep cornea and anterior chamber.

PURPOSE To report a case of caterpillar setae embedded in the deep cornea and anterior chamber. METHODS A 26-year-old man was struck in his right eye by a caterpillar (Dendrolimus punctatus walker). Severe conjunctival injection, chemosis, and erosion of the cornea developed immediately. Numerous setae fragments were found to be embedded into the palpebral conjunctiva and deep cornea, extending into the anterior chamber near the anterior iris surface. RESULTS After partial removal of the setae under a microscope, the inflammation subsided and visual acuity improved to RE: 20/20. CONCLUSION Caterpillar setae are sharp enough to penetrate the cornea and extend into the anterior chamber.