Ophthalmology - Eyelid disorders Flashcards
Definition and presentation of blepharitis
Inflammation of the eyelid margins
Gritty, itchy, dry eyes
It can lead to styes and chalazions.
Management of blepharitis
Hot compresses and removing debris using cotton wool dipped in sterilised water
Lubricating eye drops can be used e.g. polyvinyl alcohol or hypromellose
What are Chalazion/Stye?
Stye - an infection of a gland in the eye e.g. Glands of Moll (sweat glands), glands of Zeis (sebaceous glands) or Meibomiam glands. Typically tender red lump along the eyelid that may contain pus
Chalazion - occurs when a Meibomian gland becomes blocked and swells up. It is often called a Meibomian cyst. It presents with a swelling in the eyelid that is typically not tender. It can be tender and red.
Treatment of stye/chalazion
Hot compresses and analgesia
Consider topical antibiotics if stye is associated with conjunctivitis or is persistent or if a chalazion is acutely inflamed
Entropion possible consequences
Corneal damage and ulceration
Entropion management
Initial management is by taping the eyelid down to prevent it turning inwards.
Definitive management is with surgical intervention.
Lubricating eye drops
Ectropion possible consequence
Exposure keratopathy - eyeball is exposed and not adequately lubricated and protected.
Ectropion management
May not need treatment if mild
Lubricating eye drops
Severe cases may require surgery to correct the defect
What is trichiasis and what is the treatment?
Inward growth of eyelashes
Can result in pain and corneal damage/ulceration
Treat by removing the eyelashes by epilation
What is periorbital cellulitis?
What is the treatment?
What is a possible consequence?
Infection of the skin and eyelid in front of the orbital septum
Presents with swelling, erythema and hot skin
Treat with systemic antibiotics (usually oral)
May develop into orbital cellulitis
What is orbital cellulitis? Treatment?
Infection that involves the tissues behind the orbital septum.
Admission and urgent IV antibiotics
How to differentiate between orbital and pre-orbital cellulitis?
Differs from periorbital cellulitis in that it causes pain on eye movement, reduced eye movement, changes in vision, abnormal pupil reactions and forward movement of the eyeball (proptosis).
Potential complications of orbital cellulitis?
Vision loss - compromise to optic nerve function
Intracranial extension of the abscess
Sepsis
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
