This module aims to equip the student with pathogenesis, signs and symptoms, methods of examination and management of common conditions affecting the anterior structures of the eye as well as the coverage of management and treatment strategies reflecting current and future ophthalmic practice.
Learning outcomes: At the end of this module the student will be able to:
1. Knowledge and understanding
1.1. Recognize vascular, neoplastic, immunological diseases of the anterior segment of the eye and their management
1.2. Describe frequently encountered eye conditions involving:
- Lids
- Orbit
- Conjunctiva
- Cornea
- Lens
- Anterior uvea
1.3. Describe Drugs used in the treatment of anterior segment eye disease
2. Cognitive/Intellectual skills/Application of knowledge
2.1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of abnormalities affecting the anterior of the eye, neurological abnormalities affecting the eye and abnormalities affecting the anterior segment of the eye
2.2. Examine the various types of tumors affecting the anterior segment. and the management of those conditions
2.3. Refer patients for further management
2.4. Use slit lamp to examine a patent with different conditions affecting the anterior segment of the eyeModule Overview
This module provides students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in the principles of light transmission, its interaction with optical media, and the operation of common ophthalmic equipment. The course is designed to prepare students for clinical practice by integrating theoretical concepts with hands-on application in ophthalmology.
Learning Outcomes
1. Knowledge and Understanding
- Define intraocular pressure and its clinical significance.
- Explain the purpose and process of refraction examinations.
- Identify and describe the use of common ophthalmic instruments.
- Illustrate both objective and subjective refraction techniques.
- Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of various refraction methods.
2. Cognitive and Practical Skills
- Clean and disinfect tonometers according to best practices.
- Operate a direct ophthalmoscope, even without full interpretation skills.
- Perform and record confrontation field tests and external eye examinations.
- Conduct Amsler Grid and confrontation field tests.
- Accurately use a lensometer, penlight, and gain introductory experience with a slit lamp.
3. Communication and Analytical Skills
- Take patient histories and accurately record clinical findings.
4. Transferable Skills
- Develop self-critical reflection and professional autonomy.
- Apply ethical standards in clinical practice and patient interaction.
- Construct logical arguments and handle complex information.
- Make critical judgments based on evidence and professional standards.
Indicative Content
Clinical Optics
- Models describing light
- The electromagnetic spectrum
- Optical imaging concepts
- Basic lens terminology
- Principles of reflection and refraction
- Prisms and their optical effects
- The eye as an optical system
- Introduction to refractive errors and their correction
Ophthalmic Instruments and Equipment
- Visual acuity charts
- Tonometers
- Phoropter
- Penlight
- Slit lamp
- Lensometer
- Direct and indirect ophthalmoscopes
- Autorefractometer
- Retinoscope
- Pupillometer
- Exophthalmometer