Loss of Vision Flashcards
What are some important questions to ask with regards to loss of vision?
Is it uni/bilateral?
Was onset sudden or gradual?
How is your vision disturbed? (Blurred, distorted, black etc.)
Associated symptoms such as pain
What are the benefits/drawbacks of an opthalmoscope?
Good definition
Can’t see much
What is an Amsler chart?
A small grid used to monitor any distortions of the vision caused by factors such as fluid leaking or anything else affecting the retina.
Distorted grid lines or grey patches indicated loss of vision
Which tests may be used to assess the visual field?
Confrontation
Automated perimeter
What is optical coherence tomography used for?
Assesses what part of the retina is affected by fluid/haemorrhage
What is central retinal artery occlusion?
An embolus lodged in the central retinal artery which causes sudden complete loss of vision
What is central retinal vein occlusion?
An embolus or external pressure or inflammation affecting the central retinal vein which causes sudden complete loss of vision
How is a central retinal vein occlusion treated?
Intravitreal anti-VegF to stop capillary leak
What are some symptoms of giant cell arteritis?
Loss of vision Headache Loss of appetite Tender scalp Tenderness of superficial temporal arteries RAISED INFLAMMATORY MARKERS
How is giant cell arteritis treated?
High dose systemic steroids
What is a cataract?
Gradual opacification of the lens
What is the most common cause of a cataract?
Age
What are some effects of a cataract?
Dazzle/glare
Loss of vision
How are cataracts treated?
Intraoccular lens implant
Topical anaesthetic
What causes glaucoma?
Raised intraoccular pressure
