Acidic chemical corneal ulceration secondary to nail polish spill in a puppy

PURPOSE: To describe the treatment of an acidic chemical corneal ulceration in a puppy secondary to nail polish spilling on and adhering to the cornea. CASE SUMMARY: A 12-week-old neutered male Australian Shepherd mix dog was presented to Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital's (CSU-VTH) Emergency and Urgent Care service acutely after exposure to nail polish spilling on the left eye (OS). Initial ophthalmic examination revealed nail polish adhered to approximately 80% of the cornea with moderate diffuse corneal edema and chemosis, and green nail polish adhered to the skin and fur of the periocular area. Copious flushing with eye wash was performed, but no areas of reduced nail polish adherence were noted. The patient was treated with 1 drop of topical ofloxacin 0.3% ophthalmic solution OS and hospitalized overnight, receiving hyaluronic acid ophthalmic lubrication every hour OS. The treatment plan was carried out for 6 h until time of transfer. In the morning, CSU-VTH's Ophthalmology service removed a nonadhered nail polish plaque in 1 piece using Bishop-Harmon tissue forceps. Following removal, a superficial ulcer secondary to an acidic chemical burn covering 100% of the corneal surface was noted, as well as moderate diffuse corneal edema. Following topical treatment for 8 days, the superficial ulcer healed completely, with no significant long-term consequences. UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This is the first report of management of an acidic chemical corneal ulceration secondary to nail polish spill in a puppy. Early assessment and vigilance in treatment was essential for a good prognosis and outcome.