#57. Blindness - degrees, causes and types. The most common topical drugs in ophthalmology.

Question 1

What is Blindness?

Answer 1

• When VISUAL ACUITY is LESS THAN &laquo_space;3/60
• According to SNELLEN’s CHART

Question 2

What is the CAUSE for Blindness?

Answer 2

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Trachoma
• Childhood Blindness
• Onchocerciasis
• Other Causes

Question 3

What are the Types of TOPICAL DRUGS to TREAT Blindness?

Answer 3

1) Eye Drops
2) Eye Ointments
3) Eye Lotions

Question 4

How are EYE DROPS Used to Treat Blindness?

Answer 4

• ABSORBED through he CORNEA
• ABSORPTION ALSO through the MUCOSA, giving rise to SYSTEMIC Effects
• HIGH INTRAOCULAR Concentrations are achieved IF APPLIED REGULARLY
• Either be in
  a. SOLUTION FORM = Anaesthetic Drops
  b. IN SUSPENSION = Steroids
• SHORT Drug-Eye CONTACT TIME, therefore there NEEDS to be FREQUENT APPLICATION

Question 5

How are EYE OINTMENTS Used to Treat Blindness?

Answer 5

• Ointments ALLOW PROLONGED Contact Time, therefore LESS FREQUENT APPLICATION
• Suitable for NIGHT USE
• HELP with LUBRICATION

Question 6

How are EYE LOTIONS Used to Treat Blindness?

Answer 6

• SOLUTIONS used for IRRIGATION of the CONJUNCTIVAL SAC = FLUSH OUT Particles / Chemical Irritants
• Can use STERILE NORMAL SALINE or CLEAN WATER in an emergency

Question 7

What are EXAMPLES of TOPICAL DRUGS to treat Blindness?

Answer 7

• Corticosteroids
• Anti-Inflammatory Eye Drops
• Antibiotics = CHOREMPHENICOL