Snake venom ophthalmia is a rare and potentially blinding condition caused by the defensive projection of venom into the eyes by certain elapids, such as Naja species. While primarily a public health concern in tropical regions, its incidence is rising in Western countries due to the increasing popularity of exotic pet ownership and risks inherent in animal research. Despite the well-characterized systemic effects of Naja bites, significant gaps remain in the literature regarding the clinical course, optimal management strategies, and long-term visual outcomes of venom ophthalmia. We report a paediatric case of venom ophthalmia following direct ocular exposure to venom projected by the Equatorial spitting cobra (Naja sumatrana), accompanied by a brief review of the existing literature.

In the resuscitation of acute cardiac tamponade, it is imperative to prioritize circulatory management over airway and breathing interventions. The application of both invasive and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (PPV) can be detrimental due to the resultant increase in intrathoracic pressure, which adversely affects a heart dependent on preload. Therefore, timely pericardiocentesis is essential to reduce intrapericardial pressure, thereby improving stroke volume and cardiac output. This case elucidates the adverse outcomes, including clinical deterioration and cardiac arrest, associated with non-invasive PPV in the context of cardiac tamponade.