Chemical Eye Injury Caused by Multiple Ant Bites in a Sadhu: A Report of a Rare Case

Ant bites are a common occurrence. Although ocular ant bites are uncommon, they pose unique management challenges due to chemical injuries and the adherence of ants to the conjunctiva through their mandibles. Ascetic Hindu monks, also called sadhus in India, live isolated lives, often have poor nutritional status, and may not regularly access medical facilities. As a result, when they present to the emergency department, there are various challenges, such as a lack of medical history and delayed presentation. An elderly male sadhu in his 80s arrived at the emergency department with an altered mental status of unknown duration. He had multiple ants adhered to his conjunctivae, with a pH of 4 in the left eye and 4.5 in the right eye. He was diagnosed with chemical eye injury (CEI) from multiple ant bites. He was also found to have septic encephalopathy from a urinary tract infection. He was discharged on day 12, conscious, oriented, and with normal visual acuity. CEIs from ant bites require prompt management. Removal of the ants can be challenging, as they grip the conjunctiva firmly with their mandibles. Emergency care for sadhus is further complicated by their isolation, poor nutrition, and unsanitary living conditions.