[Orbital penetrating wound by a bull horn].

INTRODUCTION

Bull horn injuries are severe lesions with a high risk of bacterial contamination, and are common in countries where people are fond of bullfighting and related spectacles.

CASE REPORT: A 19-year-old man was referred with a penetrating wound in the superior left eyelid produced by a bull horn and resulting in a fracture of the orbital roof and a fat hernia. Prophylactic antibiotics and tetanus toxoid were administered and surgical reconstruction of the wound performed. Orbital cellulitis did develop, but this responded to systemic antibiotic therapy within a few days.

DISCUSSION: Successful treatment of this type of lesion requires early diagnosis, meticulous surgical exploration and appropriate use of prophylactic antibiotics and tetanus toxoid.