Oxford Handbook of Ophthalmology

Synopsis

Fully revised and updated throughout, the fourth edition of the Oxford Handbook of Ophthalmology now includes free access to the ophthalmic online media bank, a selection of high-quality clinical images and videos for a wide breadth of key ophthalmic diseases. Clear, concise, and practical, this handbook provides immediate access to the detailed clinical information you need, in casualty, clinic, theatre, and on the wards. The core of the book comprises a systematic synopsis of ophthalmic disease directed towards diagnosis, interim assessment, and ongoing management. Assessment boxes for common clinical conditions and algorithms for important clinical presentations illustrate this practical approach. The information is easily accessible, presented in a clear format with areas of importance highlighted. Key sections for the trainee include: Clinical Skills, Aids to Diagnosis, Investigations and their Interpretation, Perioperative Care, Theatre Notes and Therapeutics. The wider practise of eye-care is supported by expanded chapters on Refractive Ophthalmology, Vision in Context, Evidence Based Ophthalmology and Resources for Ophthalmologists. Now including newer treatments across a range of specialities such as SMILE, gene-therapy and retinal prostheses, as well as greater emphasis on the evidence underlying current clinical practice and guidelines, this handbook has never been more essential for all those working in eye-care. Whether you want to learn about patient-reported outcomes, identify a surgical instrument, interpret a statistical test, or diagnose and treat ophthalmic emergencies, you will find it here. Whatever your role in caring for patients with eye disease: ophthalmologist, optometrist, orthoptist, ophthalmic nurse, or other health profession - discover for yourself why this handbook has become the 'go-to' resource for tens of thousands of eye-care professionals around the world.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Eye and Orbit

Summary:

This chapter provides an overview of the anatomy and embryology of the eye and orbit. It covers the development of the eye, its layers, and accessory structures such as eyelids and lacrimal apparatus. The chapter also discusses the orbit and surrounding structures, including the optic nerve and muscles.

Real Example:

* A patient presents with a swollen and painful eye. On examination, the eyelid is red and edematous, and the conjunctiva is inflamed. The patient's vision is impaired, and there is tenderness to palpation over the orbit. The diagnosis is cellulitis of the eyelid and orbit, which may have resulted from a bacterial infection.

Chapter 2: Optics and Refraction

Summary:

This chapter examines the optics of the eye, including refraction, accommodation, and aberrations. It explains how light enters the eye and is focused on the retina to form an image. The chapter also discusses refractive errors (e.g., myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) and their correction with lenses.

Real Example:

* A child complains of difficulty seeing the board at school. An eye examination reveals that the child is nearsighted (myopic). The optometrist prescribes eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct the refractive error, enabling the child to see clearly at all distances.

Chapter 3: The Retina

Summary:

This chapter covers the structure and function of the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of the eye. It discusses photoreception, the visual cycle, and the different cell types involved in vision. The chapter also explores retinal diseases such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Real Example:

* An elderly patient presents with blurred vision and a central scotoma (blind spot). Examination of the retina reveals the presence of drusen and geographic atrophy, hallmark signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Chapter 4: The Optic Nerve

Summary:

This chapter focuses on the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. It discusses the structure and function of the nerve, as well as its blood supply and the potential risks of injury. The chapter also covers optic nerve diseases such as glaucoma and optic neuritis.

Real Example:

* A patient experiences sudden loss of vision in one eye. An examination reveals a swollen optic disc and increased intraocular pressure. The diagnosis is acute angle-closure glaucoma, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

Chapter 5: The Visual Pathways

Summary:

This chapter traces the visual pathways from the retina to the brain. It discusses the optic chiasm, optic tracts, and the visual cortex in the occipital lobe. The chapter also examines the neuroanatomy of visual fields and pupillary reflexes.

Real Example:

* A patient is seen with a right-sided upper quadrant visual field defect. Examination reveals an optic nerve lesion, which is traced back to a pituitary tumor that is compressing the optic chiasm.