[Post electrocution cataract. Case report].

Abstract

Introduction: Cataract caused by high tension electric trauma remains a rare entity. It is often bilateral and late-onset especially if the electric current passes through the head.

Patients and methods: We report a case of a bilateral cataract secondary to high tension electric trauma.

Results: A 13-year-old child presented with bilateral cataract secondary to high tension electric trauma (22 000sVolts) two years earlier accidentally on the railroad. The electric current has crossed the head and both upper limbs. This had resulted in immediate burns on the right scalp and hand. Ophthalmological examination found a total white cataract in the RE and anterior subcapsular lens opacities in the LE.

Conclusion: Cataract is a rare but serious complication of severe electric trauma requiring regular and prolonged eye monitoring owing to its possible late occurrence.