Cataracts Flashcards
1
Q
define cataracts?
A
opacification of the lens of the eye resulting in blurred vision
2
Q
major cause of cataracts
A
simple ageing
3
Q
secondary causes of cataracts?
A
- steroids
- previous eye trauma
- uveitis
- diabetes
- Wilson’s
- hypocalcaemia
- congenital
4
Q
epidemiology of cataracts?
A
• Leading cause of treatable blindness worldwide
5
Q
presenting symptoms of cataracts?
A
- Gradual-onset painless loss of vision
- Glare from bright light
- Halos around lights
- Monocular diplopia
- Faded colour vision
6
Q
signs of cataracts on physical examination?
A
- Loss of red reflex normally seen on ophthalmoscope when looking at the retina
- Reduced visual acuity
- Hazy lens appearance
7
Q
appropriate investigations for cataracts?
A
- Ophthalmoscopy: normal fundus and optic nerve
* Slit lamp examination: findings = visible cataracts
