Eye Disorders Flashcards
What is a stye (hordeola)?
Localised infection (usually staphylococcus aureus) of sebaceous or sweat glands.
Usually at base of eyelash, can be broader, and can coexist with conjunctivitis
Usually self-limiting
List some symptoms associated with a stye
Pain, soreness, tenderness, inflammation
localised redness effecting one eye
Swelling of eye margin
Conjunctivitis symptoms may be present
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a bilateral (typically) inflammation of the eyelid margin, typically chronic recurring
Caused by = S. aureus, Seborrhoeic dermatitis or Meibomian gland dysfunction
Can coexist with both conjunctivitis and dry eyes (50%)
What age group is commonly affected by blepharitis?
50 years of age, bacterial types are usually seen at 42 years
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
Irritated, red, burning, itchy, excess tears, photophobia
Eyelids present red and crusty (Skin flakes)
Morning symptoms = symptoms worsen, eyelids stuck together
Ulceration at base of eyelashes
Staph blepharitis = foreign body sensation, matting of eyelashes, burning feeling
What are some defining factors between the types of blepharitis?
Staphylococcal epidermis blepharitis = missing eye lashes
Staphylococcal = eyelash turned inwards
seborrheic = greasy crusting of eye lashes
What is a chalazion?
Granulomatous, non-infectious inflammatory lesion on the eyelids common in adults
Cause = obstruction of Meibomian gland at the rim of the eyelids –> foreign body reaction to sebum
Name the symptoms seen with chalazion
swelling, minimal pain and tenderness
Symptoms are localised, usually painless
How is chalazion treated?
Apply warm compress, should resolve within several weeks
Incision & drainage may be required
Topical or systemic antibacterial usually not indicated
What are some questions you can ask a patient presenting with eye condition?
Can you please describe your symptoms? How did they develop and when did you first notice them?
Where is it? (localised or is it diffuse)
Does it effect one or both eyes?
What have you done so far to treat this?
What other risk factors are there? (contacts, comorbidities, medications, allergies)
Treatment goals for styes and chalazion
They’re self-limiting, resolve 5-7 days (chalazion is a little longer)
Keep eye clean and free of discharge = dilute baby shampoo
Refer when needed and prevent recurrence
Evidence based management = warm compress 3-4 times/day (promote drainage), prescription only medicine for widespread infection affecting vision
Treatment goals and steps for seborrheic blepharitis
improve eyelid hygiene= warm compress to closed eye (5-10 mins, twice daily), scrub eyelid with 1:10 diluted baby shampoo or diluted sodium bicarbonate solution twice daily
Clean daily –> prevent recurrence
Treat other affected areas = scalp dandruff (med shampoo), dry eyes (ocular lubricant), antibiotics (infection)
What is the non-pharmacological treatment of staph blepharitis?
Warm compress to closed eye (5-10 mins, twice daily)
Will see loss/breaking of eyelashes
Very contagious, avoid rubbing/touching eyes, sharing towels
What is the pharmacological treatment of staph blepharitis?
Antibacterial eye ointment = chloramphenicol (chlorsig) twice daily, massage into base of eyelash
Use until clinically resolved (10-14 days)
What are some tips to tell people about eye conditions?
Wash hands regularly, bathe eyelids with warm water to clear off discharge
If you wipe with tissues, throw them away, do not share towels
Do not wear contact lenses for up to 48 hrs after symptoms are resolved
