Detection and analysis of metals in the eye by x-ray spectrometry

Abstract

A method for the analysis of metallic foreign bodies (and, in particular, for the determination of the concentration of dissolved copper) in the vitreous body of the eye is discussed. The method is based on the x-ray fluorescence of the foreign metal. The limit of detection of the system for a given dose is thoroughly investigated. Experiments on test animals indicate a natural content of copper in the wall of the eye which is equal for both eyes. Analyses of metallic foreign bodies in the eyes of patients are reported.