![]() A total of 111 cases were documented (average: 2.7 patients per study, range 1–17 patients). Since 2000, there has been an increase in reported cases alongside an increase in the number of published articles. Of the articles included, 41 came from Europe, North America, or Australia, while seven came from the Middle East or Asia. The objective of the article is to draw attention to the potential hazard posed by laser pointers and to raise awareness of these dangers among children and adolescents in particular. This article presents data from a systematic literature review and describes the morphological and functional characteristics of retinal injury caused by laser pointers with prohibited power output levels in seven children. In addition, non-certified green laser pointers, in contrast to red laser pointers, are able to emit light at different wavelengths, including invisible infrared radiation ( 6). These devices, which are usually operated with standard batteries, frequently emit light in the green spectrum at an output often significantly exceeding permitted limits ( 5). However, only part of the population can be expected to have this blink reflex, meaning that these natural protective mechanisms are inadequate ( 3).Īlthough the optical radiation output of laser pointers is officially regulated ( 4) and tested laser pointers should not exceed a power of 1 mW ( 2)-which is comparatively harmless under most conditions-untested and incorrectly classified devices pose a risk of permanent retinal injury. This class of laser only causes damage if the exposure time exceeds 0.25 s, which approximately corresponds to the time lag of the natural blink reflex (according to DIN EN 60825–1). The blink reflex and aversion responses are protective mechanisms against injury caused by devices with a radiation output of less than 1 mW ( 2). The retina is the primary site of injury caused by photocoagulation. An increased incidence of laser pointer attacks both in public and in private has lead to greater public and scientific interest in laser pointer injury ( 1).ĭepending on wavelength, radiation power, exposure time, localization, and spot size, laser pointers can cause extensive photothermal injury to the eye, which can lead to blindness. ![]() ![]() However, laser pointers purchased online often prove to be untested direct imports. The ease with which these can be obtained through allegedly safe online shops has also contributed to a rise in their use. Due to a significant cost reduction in recent years, reasonably priced high-power laser diodes in the form of laser pointers have become available. They are used in a variety of applications in modern medicine and industry, as well as for private purposes. Lasers have become an indispensable part of everyday life.
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