Could a burst toy balloon cause a major ocular injury like cataract in a child? A case report

Abstract

Ocular injuries in children remain a largely preventable phenomenon, and the resulting morbidity may be life-long. A variety of objects have been implicated as causes of ocular injuries in children, but that resulting from a burst balloon on the face is rare, as this toy may not be recognised as potentially hazardous, especially in children. The case of a 3-year old Nigerian girl who presented with left cataract and esotropia (squint) following a burst toy balloon on the face is reported. This is aimed at drawing attention to the possibility that this common toy may have the potential of causing a major ocular injury especially in children. The need for adequate safety measures to be taken, while children are at play, is also emphasized.