Question - The term “crack eye” describes crack use induced corneal injury. How does crack use predispose to corneal injury?
Answer - The cited reference notes “There are several reasons smoking crack cocaine predisposes to corneal injury. First, crack cocaine smoke has a direct toxic effect on the corneal epithelium. This effect is exaggerated by the anesthetic properties of cocaine that lead to a decreased corneal blink reflex. Additionally, devitalization of the corneal nerves decreases the corneal epithelial integrity, leading to neurotrophic keratopathy. Repeated exposure to the alkaloid smoke may cause chronic chemical burns. Finally, in some patients, the smoke acts as a direct irritant, causing excessive eye rubbing that results in infectious complications.” (Miller AD and Sherman SC. Crack eye. 2009 J Emerg Med 37(1):75-76)