Early and Late Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Features of Acute Welding Maculopathy

Electrical welding arcs emit an intense and extended spectrum of radiation ranging from infrared to ultraviolet. The cornea and lens absorb the ultraviolet range giving rise to painful keratoconjuntivitis.1-3 Radiation in the visible and near infrared range (400-1400 nm wavelength) penetrates deep into the eye and, if sufficient in intensity, may damage the retina. Although welding induced photic retinal injury is rare, welders have a risk of phototoxic maculopathy. Infrared absorbing green glass filters placed within the welder’s helmet protects ocular tissues from welding arc radiation.4 Some reports have already described optical coherence tomography (OCT) features of acut