Chalcosis: a study of natural history.

Ten patients harboring a small, intra-vitreal, copper foreign body in one eye for 4 months to 29 years have been studied clinically and electrophysiologically. Nine of the ten affected eyes had a visual acuity of 20/60 or better. Some asymmetry existed in the electrophysiologic responses of seven affected eyes as compared to the controls, but all of these responses were within the normal range. The electroretinogram was reduced in one eye but was consistent with vitreous opacification. Vitreous opacification and copper deposition in the macula were potentially serious sequelae observed in four eyes. Small, intraocular copper foreign bodies can be tolerated for long periods of time without retinal toxicity, but vitreous changes of maculopathy may necessitate intervention.