The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Case Report

The Red Eye Revisited: Ophthalmia Nodosa Due to Tarantula Hairs

Authors: DAVID A. BELYEA MD, DAVID C. TUMAN MD, THOMAS P. WARD MD, THOMAS R. BABONIS DO

Abstract

ABSTRACT: We present the case of a 17-year-old girl who came to our center with a red irritated eye from exposure to tarantula hairs. An ophthalmology literature search revealed six reported cases. There have been no reports of these cases in the general medical and pediatric literature. Due to the increasing popularity of tarantulas as pets, we present the following case report and discussion to bring attention to this potential complication of tarantula handling.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References