Break in Corneal Shine due to Lime: Successful Restoration of Cornea after Accidental Chemical Injury – A Case Report

Chemical burns are potentially blinding injuries and represent true ophthalmic emergencies that demand immediate evaluation and prompt initiation of treatment. Among these, alkali burns are more common than acid burns. Such injuries can cause widespread damage to the ocular surface epithelium, cornea, anterior segment structures, and limbal stem cells, often leading to permanent visual impairment in one or both eyes. We report a case of a 64-year-old female who developed diminution of vision following accidental chemical trauma with lime (calcium hydroxide). Clinical evaluation revealed deeply embedded corneal deposits without signs of acute infection or intraocular inflammation. She underwent surgical management involving superficial corneal scraping, thereby removing the necrotic tissue and suturing of a corneal patch graft. The surgery helped to restore ocular surface integrity, remove necrotic tissue, and promote healing, thereby reducing the risk of complications and preserving visual potential. Early surgical intervention and tailored postoperative care are essential for optimal outcomes in such cases.