Introduction: Penetrating injury is characterized by the existence of entry wound only, and it can be with or without an intraocular foreign body (IOFB). IOFB can lead to a mechanical injury of the eye and to cause infection or to manifest other toxic effects on intraocular structures. Iron and copper can dissolve and cause siderosis, i.e. chalcosis of the eye. Ocular siderosis is diagnosed by clinical and electroretinogram (ERG) findings.
Outline of cases: The first patient was a 37-year-old male who was injured by a metal foreign body. He presented at the Clinic two years after the injury. Visual acuity of the right eye (VOD) on admission was VOD=L+P+ (light projection). Pars plana phaco-vitrectomy with IOFB extraction was done. Visual acuity on discharge was VOD=3/60 cc + 7.50 Dsph=0.2. The second patient was a 55-year-old male who presented at the clinic 18 months after injury. On admission visual acuity in his left eye was VOS 1/60. Pars plana phacovitrectomy with IOFB extraction was done.Visual acuity on discharge was VOS=0.7 through the stenopeic slit.
Conclusion: In penetrating injuries caused by a metal IOFB pars plana vitrectomy with IOFB extraction is indicated. In cases with IOFB, when visual acuity is preserved, the lens is transparent, while the eye is without signs of infection, urgent pars plana vitrectomy is not necessary. Such patients need regular followup with obligatory ERG findings.