Tutorial 1 - Introduction to ophthalmology

Question 1

What are refractive errors?

Answer 1

Abnormalities in the focusing mechanism of the eye, such that light does not fall sharply on the retina –> reduce visual acuity

Question 2

How can you treat refractive errors?

Answer 2

Pinhole, glasses, contact lenses, refractive procedures

Question 3

What is myopia?

Answer 3

Too strong focusing mechanism makes the image to fall before the retina (“eye is longer”)

Question 4

What is hypermetropia?

Answer 4

Too weak focusing mechanism makes the image to fall behind the retina (“eye is too short”)

Question 5

What is astigmatism?

Answer 5

Condition where the cornea is not perfectly spherical (i.e. more egg/rugby ball shaped) and therefore light is focused in two different focus points which overlap, resulting in blurred vision

Question 6

What is presbyopia?

Answer 6

Condition where the eye gradually loses its focusing ability for near objects (accommodation) in particular as a result of age (loss of elasticity of crystalline lens capsule and weakening of the ciliary muscles)