Definition Refractive surgery is the surgical correction of refractive errors of the eye such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Key Features • Established subspecialty of ophthalmology. • Growing variety…
Definition Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva due to an immediate hypersentivity reaction to environmental allergens. Key Features • Itching and redness are common presenting symptoms. • Treatment includes…
Definition Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is a laser refractive procedure in which a corneal stromal lenticule is created with a femtosecond laser and removed though a small incision in…
Definition From the earliest optical devices to the latest computerized imaging systems, technology has aided the clinician in the diagnosis and treatment of ocular disease. Key Features • The ability…
Definitions • Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a procedure in which the cornea is reshaped using an excimer laser. PRK involves epithelial removal and photoablation of Bowman’s layer and anterior corneal…
Definitions Blepharitis is a general term describing inflammation of the eyelids, whereas marginal blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margin, which can be subdivided into anterior and posterior blepharitis. Anterior…
Definition Infection of varicella (chickenpox) in the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal dermatome most frequently affecting the nasociliary branch. Key Features • Herpes zoster ophthalmicus can affect any of the…
Definitions • Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a procedure combining corneal saturation with riboflavin and exposure to UV light to increase the amount of links between collagen fibers in the corneal…
Definition Wavefront-customized excimer laser refractive surgery corrects pre-existing lower- and higher-order aberrations. Wavefront-optimized treatments preserve pre-existing corneal optical aberrations (customizing for spherical aberration). Key Features • Zernike polynomials and Fourier…
Definition Refractive errors may be corrected by means of spectacles, contact lenses, orthokeratology, intraocular lens implants, and keratorefractive surgery. Key Features • Spectacle lens advantages: inexpensive; suitable to correct myopia,…
