Cornea & Conjunctiva & Sclera Flashcards
RTC for recurrent corneal erosions
1 day, RTC every 1-2 days to ensure healing
Treatment of RCE
Erythromycin ung QID
lubricating tears q2h
Bandage CL if erosion is large
Cause of RCE?
Secondary to trauma that causes initial corneal abrasion (fingernail or tree branch)
What is this corneal finding?
Mutton-fat (granulomatous) keratic precipitates
*associated with granulomatous anterior uveitis (aka iritis)
Which organisms can penetrate an intact corneal epithelium? (4)
- Corynebacterium diptheriae
- Haemophilus
- Listeria
- Neisseria gonorrhoea
Bacterial conjunctivitis in kids is caused by?
Haemophilus influenzae
Bacterial conjunctivitis in adults is caused by?
S. Aureus
True or false
Preauricular lymphadenopathy is present in bacterial conjunctivitis
FLASE
RTC for giant papillary conjunctivitis
2 to 4 weeks
Treatment for corneal abrasion in patients who wear CL
AB that protects against pseudomonas (fluoroquinolone or tobramycin QID)
If patient with corneal abrasion is extremely photophobic, what can you prescribe them?
Cycloplegic agent such as homatropine
RTC for small corneal abrasion
2 to 5 days later and FU until healed
True or False
Patching is recommended for CL wearers for corneal abrasion caused by vegetative or organic matter
FLASE
* do NOT patch these patients
Treatment for corneal abrasion for non-CL wearer
Antibiotic ointment Q2H or Q4H
Or
Antibiotic drops to ensure sterility
(Fluoroquniolone QID)
Patient presents with unilateral arcus. What should you do next?
Refer for carotid artery doppler contralateral to the eye with arcus to check for potential artery occlusion
Corneal arcus initially appears where on the peripheral cornea?
Inferior
Superior
Then coalesces circumferentially
Cholesterol deposits in which layer of the cornea in Corneal Arcus?
Stromal periphery
Punctal atresia is asymptomatic when the absence of puncta is located where?
Upper eyelid
What is punctual atresia?
Congenital absence of puncta
Treatment for punctal atresia
Cannulation with placement of silicone tubes
Tx for endophthalmitis
Immediate referral to OMD for Intravitreal antibiotic injection of vancomycin and ceftazidime
What is the most likely causative organism of acute post operative endophthalmitis?
Staphylococcus epidermidis
Iron pigment line on pterygium
Stocker line
* sign of stability
Hudson-stahli line
Observed in inferior mid-peripheral region of corneas of patients with advanced age
- iron deposit line where tear film is stagnant
- asymptomatic
Fleischer ring
At base of the cone in patients with keratoconus
If a rust ring is present with a metallic foreign body, how should it be removed?
Alger brush
* ophthalmic drill
* stop spinning if pushed too deep, can’t go to bowman’s layer
Symptoms of acute interstitial keratitis
- Red, painful eyes with lacrimation and photophobia
Name the condition:
- Fine keratitic precipitates on endothelium
- Stromal neovascularizarion with corneal edema
Interstitial keratitis
What is the most common cause of interstitial keratitis?
Congenital syphilis
* Hutchinson triad
1. Pegged shaped teeth
2. Interstitial keratitis
3. Deafness
Iron deposits at the base of the cone at the corneal epithelial level in Keratoconus
Fleischer Ring
Minimal corneal thickness for CXL after removal of corneal epithelium to prevent endothelial damage
400 microns
* if patient has less than 400 microns they are not a candidate for CXL
Contraindications for CXL
HX of herpes infection
Concurrent infection
Severe corneal scarring or opacification
Poor wound healing
Severe ocular surface disease
Autoimmune disorders
RTC for corneal dellen
1-7 days
Treatment for Mucin balls (secondary from soft or hard CL wear)
Steepen base curve of lens
Poor CL fit bubbles of CO2 trapped under lens, causing indentations in corneal epithelium, leaving tiny circular depressions that pool with sodium Fl
Dimple Veiling
* golf ball appearance
How to resolve dimple veiling from poor fitting GPCL?
Decrease overall diameter
Decrease optic zone diameter
Clinical signs of bacterial corneal ulcer
White stromal infiltrate with overlying epithelial defect surrounding edema and conjunctival injection
* plus iritis, hypopyon, mucopurulent discharge and eyelid edema/erythema
Treatment for corneal ulcers located peripherally, don’t stain with FL and are less than 1mm in size
Broad spectrum AB
* ciprofloxacin every 2-4 hours
* because location of ulcer lower risk of vision loss
What size and location of a corneal ulcer should be treated with fluoroquinolone every hour around the clock?
Ulcers in periphery but are larger 1-1.5mm with an epithelial defect, mild anterior chamber reaction, and moderate discharge
What is considered a high risk corneal ulcer?
Centrally located or larger than 1.5 mm
Treatment for high risk corneal ulcers
Fortified (stronger med) Tobramycin or gentamycin alternated with cefazolin or vancomycin every half hour
Or
Topical fluoroquniolone
1 gtts q5min for 25 min
Then every 15 minutes for 45 min
Then every 30 minutes for 24 hours
RTC for bacterial corneal ulcer
1 day
* sight threatening, patient must be followed daily
* pay attention to size and depth, amount of epi staining/defect and symptoms of pain or anterior chamber reaction
What organism is MOST likely to cause CL associated keratitis?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
* bacteria can produce enzymes that can easily liquefy the cornea in 1-2 days, need treatment ASAP
For GP lenses as oxygen permeability (Dk) increases what occurs?
Increase in O2 to cornea
But decrease in wettability and less durable
* less durable meaning prone to scratches, flexure and warpage
RTC for Terrien’s marginal degeneration
6 months
* minimal risk except in advanced cases, pt can be seen every 6-12 months
* slow progressive thinning of peripheral cornea, superior, in males
Tx for diffuse scleritis
Oral NSAIDS
* indomethacin 50 mg TID
*Or Ibuprofen 600 mg TID
If patient with diffuse scleritis does not respond well to oral NSAIDs then what is next tx?
Oral steroids
* starting dose 1 mg/kg/day
Tx contraindications for necrotizing scleritis
Steroid injections are contraindicated because can cause further thinning of tissue and increase risk of perforation
RTC for diffuse scleritis after initial tx?
1 week
* to ensure tx is working
Which systemic condition is MOST associated with diffuse scleritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis
* reoccurrences are common therefore need to determine underlying etiology
Average corneal thickness
520-540 microns
Condition characterized by small thin filaments composed of degenerating epithelial cells and mucus
Filamentary keratitis
Symptoms of filamentary keratitis
- range of symptoms from mild to severe pain
- burning, photophobia, FBS, increased blinking
- decreased VA
What is the most common etiology of filamentary keratitis?
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
* secondary to aqueous tear deficiency
How long before LASIK must a patient not wear soft contact lenses?
2 weeks
* 1 weeks for soft spherical
* 2 weeks for soft Toric
How long before LASIK must a patient not wear soft contact lenses?
2 weeks
* 1 weeks for soft spherical
* 2 weeks for soft Toric
How long before LASIK should a patient with GPCL stop wearing them?
Minimum 1 month, with added recommendation of 1 month for every decade of wear (or until corneal topography is stable
FDA minimum post treatment residual thickness requirement of the corneal bed for LASIK
250 microns
* minimize risk of ectasia
What is Superior Limbic Keratoconjunctivitis (SLK)?
An ocular condition characterized by chronic, recurrent inflammation of the superior limbus and bulbar conjunctiva, superior corneal epithelial keratitis, and papillary hypertrophy of the superior tarsal conjunctiva
Which demographic is most commonly affected by SLK?
Middle-aged females
What are the common symptoms of SLK?
Irritation, redness, mucous discharge, foreign body sensation, pain, photophobia, blepharospasm, pseudo-ptosis
True or False: SLK usually presents unilaterally.
False
What is the most accepted theory regarding the pathogenesis of SLK?
Occurs as a result of mechanical trauma during blinking due to abnormal forces between tight upper lids and/or loose, redundant conjunctiva
What role does tear film deficiency play in SLK?
It leads to decreased ability of the upper eyelid to move freely over the conjunctiva, causing increased movement of the bulbar conjunctiva and subsequent damage
What condition is associated with an increased risk of SLK?
Thyroid dysfunction-induced exophthalmos
Fill in the blank: Symptoms in patients with SLK commonly vary significantly, with periods of _______ and exacerbations.
remissions
What are some non-specific complaints patients with SLK may present with?
Irritation, redness, mucous discharge, foreign body sensation
Why is SLK likely under-diagnosed?
Symptoms often outweigh signs
What other factors have been suggested to contribute to SLK aside from mechanical trauma?
- Viral infections
- Autoimmune diseases
What symptom might a patient note that is specifically related to eye movement in SLK?
Increased irritation on upgaze
What is papillary hypertrophy in the context of SLK?
Enlargement of the papillae on the superior tarsal conjunctiva
What is Superior Limbic Keratoconjunctivitis (SLK)?
A condition characterized by bilateral, localized hyperemia and thickening of the superior bulbar conjunctiva.
What are the conjunctival signs of SLK?
Bilateral hyperemia and thickening of the superior bulbar conjunctiva, redundant and keratinized appearance, and fine punctate staining with fluorescein or rose bengal.
What is observed when light pressure is applied to the upper eyelid in SLK?
A fold of redundant conjunctiva crosses over the superior limbus.
What percentage of SLK cases have corneal involvement?
About 25-30%.
What are the corneal signs associated with SLK?
Fine epithelial staining of the superior cornea, micropannus, and potential filament development.
What is the primary goal of SLK treatment?
To reduce the abnormal mechanical interaction between the superior bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva.
What types of topical lubricants are used in SLK treatment?
Artificial tears and ointments/gels.
What medications can be used to reduce inflammation in SLK?
Topical corticosteroids and/or mast cell stabilizers.
What is the role of topical cyclosporine in SLK treatment?
Helpful in managing coexisting keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
When is topical acetylcysteine indicated in SLK?
In patients with associated filamentary keratitis.
How can soft contact lenses aid in the treatment of SLK?
They offer a barrier to mechanical trauma between the lid and superior bulbar conjunctiva.
Fill in the blank: The bulbar conjunctiva in SLK appears _______.
redundant, keratinized, and thickened.
True or False: Limbal papillary hypertrophy is commonly absent in SLK.
False.
What surgical procedure involves resection of the superior limbal conjunctiva?
Resection of the superior limbal conjunctiva and Tenon’s capsule
What happens to the remaining conjunctiva after resection in SLK treatment?
It grows on the sclera and becomes immobile
Which modalities have shown effectiveness in treating SLK?
Cryotherapy or thermocautery
True or False: Topical application of silver nitrate is currently available for SLK treatment.
False
What was the previous treatment option for SLK that showed some success but is no longer available?
Topical application of silver nitrate
What causes Ultraviolet Keratopathy?
Excessive exposure to UV light resulting in painful and severe keratopathy
What is a common history associated with patients suffering from Ultraviolet Keratopathy?
History of sunlamp usage or welding without proper ocular protection
List the symptoms of Ultraviolet Keratopathy.
- Moderate to severe pain
- Blurred vision
- Photophobia
- Excessive lacrimation
- Foreign body sensation
When do symptoms of Ultraviolet Keratopathy typically onset after exposure?
6-12 hours after exposure
What are the clinical signs of Ultraviolet Keratopathy?
- Conjunctival injection
- Superficial punctate keratopathy in the interpalpebral area that may appear coalesced and stains with sodium fluorescein
- Eyelid edema
- Associated iridocyclitis may be present
What treatment is recommended for Ultraviolet Keratopathy?
- Preservative-free artificial tears every two to three hours
- Topical antibiotic drops during the day and ointment at night
- Treatment of iridocyclitis if present
- Topical NSAIDs and/or oral analgesics for pain management
- Pressure patch if the ocular surface is severely compromised
How often should patients with Ultraviolet Keratopathy be followed up?
Every 1 to 2 days to ensure resolution of symptoms and clinical signs
Fill in the blank: Ultraviolet Keratopathy is caused by excessive exposure to _______.
[UV light]
True or False: Eyelid edema may be present in Ultraviolet Keratopathy.
True
What medication is suggested for pain management in Ultraviolet Keratopathy?
Topical NSAIDs and/or oral analgesics
What is the recommended dosage for cyclopentolate in treating associated iridocyclitis?
1% t.i.d.
What is Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC)?
A recurring allergic disorder characterized by severe ocular symptoms such as itching and burning, photophobia, and lacrimation
VKC often results in significant irritation and discomfort.
What type of hypersensitivity is involved in VKC?
Type I hypersensitivity
IgE and cell-mediated immune mechanisms are important in the pathogenesis.
In which demographic does VKC primarily present?
Males within the first decade of life
VKC typically resolves by the late teens in about 95% of cases.
*warmer climates
What role do IgE, histamine, and mast cells play in VKC?
They are increased in the tears of patients with VKC
These components are associated with the allergic response.
What is the seasonal pattern of VKC symptoms?
Symptoms are usually more significant in late spring and summer
Some patients may endure mild symptoms year-round.
What percentage of VKC patients have a history of atopy or family history of allergic disorders?
60-75%
These patients often develop other allergic conditions at a young age.
What is the most pronounced symptom associated with VKC?
Intense itching
Other symptoms may include lacrimation, photophobia, and burning.
What are some additional symptoms of VKC?
Lacrimation, photophobia, burning, foreign body sensation, thick mucoid discharge, heaviness of the eyelids
Patients often experience constant blinking, which can be misdiagnosed.
True or False: The periorbital skin is affected in VKC.
False
In contrast to allergic keratoconjunctivitis, the periorbital skin remains unaffected.
Fill in the blank: VKC is more common in _______ climates.
[warmer]
Rarely occurs in temperate regions.
What is primarily involved in palpebral disease?
The upper tarsal conjunctiva of both eyes
Significant associated corneal disease may occur due to the close relationship between corneal epithelial tissue and the inflamed upper tarsus.
What appearance do the papillae in palpebral disease resemble?
Cobblestones
They have a hard, flat-topped, polygonal appearance.
What type of cells infiltrate the papillae in palpebral disease?
Lymphocytes and eosinophils
This infiltration contributes to the inflammation observed.
What is commonly observed between the giant papillae in palpebral disease?
Thick, ropy mucus discharge
This discharge is a characteristic symptom of the condition.
What happens to tarsal papillae during periods of disease activity?
They become hyperemic and edematous
Tarsal papillae may persist even when the disease appears quiescent.
Which populations are most commonly affected by limbal disease?
African-American and Asian populations
This demographic prevalence is notable in the occurrence of limbal disease.
What is a characteristic feature of limbal disease?
Single or multiple gelatinous, thickened papillae at the limbus
These papillae are often more prevalent and severe superiorly.
What are Tranta’s dots?
Discrete, whitish, raised dots at the apices of limbal papillae
They consist of collections of eosinophils and epithelial cells, seen in vernal keratoconjunctivitis
What additional symptom is common in limbal disease?
Redness and congestion of the bulbar conjunctiva
This symptom reflects the inflammatory response in the area.
What is more commonly associated with corneal involvement in vernal keratopathy?
Palpebral disease
Corneal findings typically arise from this condition.
What are the earliest corneal findings in vernal keratopathy?
Punctate epithelial erosions noted in the superior cornea
These erosions are indicative of corneal involvement in the disease.
What can coalescence of punctate erosions lead to?
Small corneal epithelial erosions
These can evolve into larger characteristic ‘shield’ ulcers.
What are shield ulcers?
Non-infectious corneal ulcers caused by mechanical trauma and damaging toxins
They can occur in patients with Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and are found in the central/superior cornea.
What causes the release of damaging toxins in VKC?
Major basic protein and eosinophil peroxidases released by eosinophils
These toxins hinder corneal re-epithelialization.
Describe the progression of shield ulcers.
Initially shallow, coated with inflammatory debris, mucous, and calcium phosphate, leading to plaque formation
The base of the ulcer becomes pacified over time.
What percentage of VKC patients develop corneal ulcers?
About 10%
Of these, 6% may develop permanent decreased visual acuity.
What is pseudogerontexon?
Peripheral vascularization or pacification in recurrent limbal disease
It resembles localized arcus senilis adjacent to previously inflamed limbus.
What can significant limbal lesions cause in VKC patients?
Substantial astigmatism
This is a complication arising from the disease.
What is the relationship between VKC and keratoconus?
Patients with VKC have a higher incidence of keratoconus
This indicates a potential association between the conditions.
*associated with atopy, allergies
What are some supportive therapies for VKC?
Cool compresses and avoidance of allergens
These therapies help alleviate symptoms.
How effective are mast cell stabilizers and antihistamines as sole treatment for VKC?
Rarely sufficient as sole treatment
They may reduce the need for steroids.
When are corticosteroids often required in VKC?
For associated keratopathy and/or severe discomfort
Topical corticosteroids are commonly used in these cases.
What is Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC)?
A type of allergic conjunctivitis characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea.
What is the role of Acetylcysteine (Topical) in VKC?
A mucolytic agent helpful in cases involving substantial mucous discharge and early plaque formation.
What symptoms does Cyclosporine (Topical) reduce in VKC?
Epithelial ulceration, limbal infiltrates, conjunctival hyperemia, and symptoms of photophobia.
When is Cyclosporine (Topical) often utilized?
In steroid-resistant cases.
What is the purpose of a Supratarsal Steroid Injection?
Reserved for non-compliant patients or those resistant to conventional treatment.
What is the volume of a Supratarsal Steroid Injection?
0.1ml of either dexamethasone or triamcinolone.
Name some systemic immunosuppressive agents used in VKC.
- Steroids
- Cyclosporine
- Azathioprine
What additional benefit do oral antihistamines provide in VKC?
They may help with sleep and eye-rubbing during the night.
What is the purpose of a Superficial Keratectomy in VKC?
To remove plaques.
What is involved in the surgical procedure of Superficial Keratectomy?
Removal of the epithelium and a very superficial dissection.
What is an Amniotic Membrane Overlay Graft used for?
For severe, persistent epithelial defects with corneal ulceration.
True or False: Cyclosporine (Topical) has shown improvement in giant papillae.
False.
What is vortex keratopathy also known as?
Corneal verticillata
Which genetic disorder is associated with vortex keratopathy?
Fabry’s disease
Name a common medication that can cause vortex keratopathy.
Amiodarone
Other medications include chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, indomethacin, and tamoxifen.
What are the common symptoms of vortex keratopathy?
Asymptomatic, glare, decreased vision
What is the appearance of corneal deposits in vortex keratopathy?
Inferocentral, bilateral yellow/brown or white powder-like
How do the corneal opacities in vortex keratopathy appear?
Swirl outward from a focal point while sparing the limbus
What type of inheritance pattern does Fabry’s disease follow?
X-linked recessive
List two clinical signs of Fabry’s disease.
- Lenticular opacities
- Conjunctival aneurysms