A subconjunctival haemorrhage (SCH) can appear alarming to patients: the sudden, bright red bleeding on the white of the eye can often raise fears of a serious problem. However, for doctors, it is crucial to distinguish between a harmless cause and an underlying condition which needs further investigation. This article aims to provide medical students
Conjunctivitis, which is often termed “pink eye”, is one of the most frequent causes of red eye presentations within primary care and the emergency department. In most cases, the condition is self-limiting. However, recognising the type of conjunctivitis – viral, bacterial, or allergic – is essential to managing it appropriately. Furthermore, it aids the prevention of unnecessary
Introduction Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) is the term for shingles that involves the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve (CNV1). It typically presents with unilateral involvement of the forehead, upper eyelid, eye or nose, corresponding to the CNV1 dermatome. Up to 50% of patients with HZO are at risk of ocular complications, including keratitis, uveitis,
Pursuing an ophthalmology elective Down Under demands early action, well-defined goals, and a methodical approach to applications. The experience offers unparalleled clinical exposure, cultural immersion, and personal growth that can be truly career-defining. However, success requires more than just enthusiasm – it demands strategic planning and proactive engagement from day one. Securing Your Placement: A
This guide is designed to help you identify the key areas you need to focus on when clerking a surgical patient. There are several differences when compared to clerking a medical patient, namely getting a more extensive surgical past medical history, examination and assessing frailty. Your clerking needs to be succint, pertinent and clear. Presenting
The FRCOphth (Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists) Part 1 exam is a significant milestone for those pursuing a career in ophthalmology. The incentive of doing the exam early is it is worth 3 points if you pass and 1 point for attempting it as per the 2025 ST1 recruitment portfolio. As an FY1/FY2,
Introduction Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is an autoimmune disease characterised by extraocular muscle swelling and orbital fat expansion1. It affects approximately 50,000 people in the UK, most commonly occurring in those diagnosed with Graves’ disease, although a minority of cases do affect euthyroid or hypothyroid patients1,2. Symptoms may include lid retraction, proptosis, watery eyes and
Strabismus, commonly referred to as “crossed eyes” or “wandering eyes,” is a visual condition characterised by the misalignment of one or both eyes. This condition can have significant implications for visual acuity and quality of life. Below is a detailed discussion on strabismus, diagnosis, affected populations, treatments, and potential complications, intended to provide medical professionals
Introduction Dry eye disease, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common eye disorder characterised by insufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. This results in uncomfortable symptoms such as gritty feeling, stinging, eye watering and eye fatigue. It can cause visual disturbances and in severe cases can potentially damage the ocular
Introduction Facial photo showing a patient with involutional ptosis of the right upper eyelid. Image from American Academy of Ophthalmology: https://www.aao.org/education/image/ptosis-5 Anatomy Sagittal section showing the superior tarsal muscle (Müller’s muscle) and levator palpebrae superioris muscle. They both elevate the eyelid by pulling on the tarsus plate. Image from: Cury, M.C., Sebastiá, R. (2021). Anatomy
