Comprehensive Overview of Eye Disorders

Mar 25, 2025

Lecture Notes on Eye Disorders and Anatomy

Types of Glaucoma

  • Angle-closure glaucoma (ACG): Sudden onset, emergency; iris presses against cornea, blocking aqueous humor outflow.
  • Open-angle glaucoma (OAG): Common in the US; gradual increase in intraocular pressure (IOP).
  • Secondary glaucoma: Result of another condition or trauma.

Eye Disorders

  • Arcus senilis: Opaque ring around the cornea.
  • Cataract: Lens opacity, distorts retinal image.
  • Enucleation: Surgical removal of the eyeball.
  • Keratoconus: Corneal degeneration.
  • Macular degeneration: Reduced central vision.
  • Retinal detachment: Retina separates from epithelium.

Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye

  • Structure: Eyeball is round and located in the orbital socket; surrounded by muscles, nerves, vessels.
  • Layers of the Eyeball:
    • External layer: Sclera and cornea.
    • Middle layer (uvea): Choroid, ciliary body, iris.
    • Innermost layer: Retina, containing rods and cones.
  • Refractive Structures and Media: Cornea, aqueous humor, lens, vitreous humor focus light on the retina.
  • External Structures: Eyelids, conjunctivae, lacrimal glands.

Eye Changes with Aging

  • Visual acuity decreases due to structural changes.
  • Changes include sunken eyes, arcus senilis, yellowing sclera.
  • Functional changes: Lens hardening, reduced elasticity leading to presbyopia.
  • Encourage eye exams and use of corrective lenses.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

  • Protect eyes from UV light.
  • Regular eye examinations important, especially for those at risk of glaucoma.

Patient History and Examination

  • Gather information on visual symptoms, systemic conditions, and family history.
  • Assess vision through acuity tests, stereo acuity, color vision tests, and peripheral vision tests.
  • Physical Examination: Check for symmetry, redness, and pupil reactivity.

Management of Cataracts

  • Surgery is primary treatment once vision affects ADLs.
  • Postoperative care includes eyedrop administration and infection prevention.

Management of Glaucoma

  • Regular monitoring and IOP management are critical.
  • Eyedrop adherence is important to prevent vision loss.
  • Surgical options when necessary include laser trabeculoplasty or shunt implants.

Corneal and Retinal Disorders

  • Corneal Abrasion/Ulceration: Requires prompt anti-infective treatment.
  • Retinal Detachment: Often requires surgical repair.

Refractive Errors

  • Corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
  • LASIK surgery can be used to correct certain errors.

Trauma to the Eye

  • Foreign bodies and lacerations require immediate care.
  • Never remove objects protruding from the eye; requires professional medical attention.

These notes summarize the key points and concepts related to eye disorders, anatomy, aging-related changes, and the management of various eye conditions. They provide a useful reference for understanding the complexities of eye health and vision care.