Ophthalmology

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  Glaucoma
NICE guidance on glaucoma focuses on chronic open angle glaucoma (NICE 2009, CG85). It does not consider acute closed angle glaucoma which is an ophthalmic emergency (usually presenting with rapid onset pain and redness in one eye).
  Tamsulosin and cataract operations
Over recent years, studies published mainly in ophthalmology journals have reported an association between the use of tamsulosin (the selective a1a-blocker frequently used in benign prostatic hypertrophy), and an increased risk of intra- and post-operative complications following cataract surgery.
  Acute infective conjunctivitis
This section does NOT cover neonatal conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis in neonates should be taken seriously: it is a notifiable disease and swabs need to be taken.
  Acute anterior uveitis
The uveal tract of the eye consists of the iris, ciliary body and choroid (the vascular layer between the sclera and the retina). However, in anterior uveitis, as the name implies, the choroid in the posterior chamber is unaffected. Anterior uveitis is sometimes called iritis. Intermediate and posterior uveitis are much rarer and not covered here.
  Diabetic retinopathy
Early changes of diabetic eye disease are asymptomatic, hence the need for screening.
  Common complications of contact lens use
Common complications of contact lens use (starting with the commonest).
  Watery eyes
This BMJ 10 minute consultation on watery eyes provides a useful structure for us to consider the causes and treatments.
  Refractive errors: terminology explained
As another GOS18 lands on your desk, are you sometimes a bit confused by all the terms? I certainly am, so here is a quick summary, in alphabetical order.
  Age-related macular degeneration
ARMD is the leading cause of blindness in the western world (from DTB 2007;45(7):49–52).