Urgent Medical Assistance for 19-Year-Old UK National with Severe Eye Infection in Thailand

Situational Analysis

A 19-year-old UK national was in Laos when she developed significant eye swelling. She sought medical attention at a local facility, but her condition worsened, so she crossed the border into Thailand. She was admitted to a local public hospital and diagnostic swabs were taken, suspecting a severe infection of the eye which without effective treatment could threaten the sight in that eye. This is often a problem with contact lenses in tropical countries such as Laos. The patient's mother contacted Crisis24’s 24/7 medical assistance team who proceeded to evaluate her condition.

Crisis24 in Action

Establishing the Severity of the Condition

The patient is used to wearing contact lenses which in tropical countries such as Laos often results in increased risk of eye infection. Upon further evaluation, the patient’s eye condition was deemed critical, with a high risk of losing the affected eye. The ophthalmologist diagnosed a severe gram-negative bacilli bacterial corneal ulcer. Corneal thinning further complicated the condition, creating a serious risk of perforation, which was classified as an ocular emergency. At this time, the patient had lost vision in the affected eye, and immediate medical intervention was required.

Transfer to a Specialized Facility

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Crisis24 swiftly arranged for the patient to be transferred to a specialized ophthalmology facility in Bangkok. A six-hour ground ambulance transfer was organized for safe and efficient transportation. An air-ambulance transfer was considered for urgency, however the risks of dehydration to the eye may have worsened the condition. Once admitted, the patient was placed on an aggressive treatment regimen, including hourly eye drops and antibiotics, to stabilize the infection and prevent further damage.

As her condition was critical, the ophthalmologist recommended a penetrating keratoplasty (corneal transplant) once a donor cornea became available. Crisis24 supported the patient throughout, ensuring she was placed on the donor list and closely monitoring her progress.

Successful Outcome

The patient responded positively to the treatment, and her condition gradually stabilized. With her health improving, Crisis24 coordinated her safe repatriation to the UK. Given the complexity of her care, including the need for five different eye drops to be administered at specific times and under controlled conditions, a Crisis24 medical escort was arranged to accompany her during the journey. Upon arrival in the UK, Crisis24 ensured the patient was referred to an ophthalmologist for continued care and monitoring, whilst awaiting keratoplasty, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.  

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