Technology Review: Toxic Responses in the Eye and Visual System

Abstract

Toxic responses elicited by chemicals in the eye are quite different in many ways from those induced in other organs because of the uniqueness of the eye which is exposed to the outside environment and perfused extensively by a rich blood supply. As a result, the eye is highly vulnerable to local contacts of chemicals, toxins, pollutants and occupational hazards, and to toxic reactions of systemic agents. This article reviews the anatomy and physiology of the eye, ophthalmic toxicology research methods in vivo and in vitro, toxic responses induced by local agents and systemic drugs, and medical treatment of ocular toxic responses.

Key Words: :

• Draize test method
• Ocular toxic responses
• Local agents
• Systemic drugs
• Air pollutants
• Occupational hazards