Ophthalmology

Diagnosing and Treating Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory eye condition that involves the conjunctiva, a highly vascularised, thin and translucent membrane that covers the anterior portion of the sclera and the inside of the eyelids. It presents as a red or pink eye due to the dilation of the blood vessels that leads to hyperaemia and oedema of the conjunctiva. This process typically is associated with some form of discharge. The most common causes of conjunctivitis are viruses, bacteria, allergens and irritants.

Modern Medicine – Issue 3 2021

Anti-VEGF Agent Use in Diabetic Macular Oedema

Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) is the most common cause of vision loss in patients with diabetic retinopathy, with an increasing prevalence tied to the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus. As a consequence of recent rigorous clinical trials, laser photocoagulation is no longer recommended for the treatment of DMO and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy (anti-VEGF) has emerged as first-line therapy.

Modern Medicine – Issue 3 2020

Bacterial Conjunctivitis – Making the Call

Eye infections are a common presenting problem in primary care. Bacterial conjunctivitis, although a less frequent cause of conjunctivitis, is more common in children. The most common bacteria are Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. To ensure a good visual outcome for the patient, the practitioner should make a prompt diagnosis and start appropriate treatment. Compared to placebo, the use of antibiotic eye drops is associated with improved rates of clinical and microbiological remission.

Modern Medicine – April/May 2019

Challenges in the Treatment of Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the fourth biggest cause of visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment with intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drugs saves sight. The burden of such treatments may be challenging to patients and carers and may reduce adherence to therapy. Investigations of alternative therapeutic targets and modalities are providing promising results. New drugs are being developed that require fewer treatments, thereby improving treatment efficacy and reducing disease burden.

Modern Medicine – Oct/Nov 2018

Wet Macular Degeneration, a Leading Cause of Blindness – MM1703

AMD is a multi-faceted condition that affects the central retina, which ultimately leads to blindness in millions of
people worldwide. The pathophysiology and risk factors for AMD are complex and the symptoms manifest in
multiple related but distinct forms. It is well-established that vascular endothelial growth
factor (VEGF) plays a major role in the neovascular or exudative form of AMD by aiding in the induction of
angiogenesis and enhancing vascular permeability. Consequently, intravitreal injections with medications
targeting VEGF have become the standard of care for exudative AMD.

Modern Medicine – February 2017

Dry Eye Disease, a Frequent Ophthalmological Diagnosis – MM1602

Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most frequently established diagnoses in ophthalmology, and represents a growing public health concern, with consequences that remain widely underestimated. This pathology causes significant impact on visual function, which may affect quality of life and work productivity.

Modern Medicine – February 2016

High And Dry: An Update on Dry Eye Syndrome – MM1403

Artificial tears are the usual first-line therapy in dry eye syndrome. Improvements in diagnostic testing and advances in disease grading and treatment guidelines have significantly changed management of a chronic disease which greatly affects quality of life.

Modern Medicine – March 2014