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
Pretibial lacerations are common injuries, especially among older adults, because the skin over the shin becomes thinner and more susceptible to tears with age. Epidemiology Pretibial lacerations may occur following minor trauma to the shin area, particularly in elderly individuals with fragile skin. The prevalence of these injuries is estimated at 5.2 per 1000 emergency
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a unique subset of wounds caused by prolonged pressure or pressure combined with shear. [1] These injuries primarily affect areas over bony prominences and are particularly common in patients with limited mobility. Early identification and management are critical to prevent further tissue damage and systemic complications. [1][2] Predisposing
Adult Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is the gold standard for managing trauma-related injuries. Arterial and nerve injuries of the upper limb can have significant associated mortality and morbidity. Knowledge of the basic principles, presentation, and initial management is paramount to reduce short and long-term consequences. These injuries usually require escalation to seniors and referral to
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
