Sickle cell retinopathy is an ocular disease associated with the sickle cell disease. Sickling haemoglobinopathies is a genetic disease which is characterized by one or more abnormal haemoglobins. These cause the red blood cells to take an abnormal shape which can result in vascular occlusion when they are exposed to conditions such as physiological stress (hypoxia or acidosis).
The FRCOphth Part 1 examination is a significant milestone for aspiring ophthalmologists. One of the most effective ways to succeed is by practicing with high-quality multiple-choice questions that mirror the actual exam. This article reviews three prominent question banks—EyeQ, eFRCOphth, and FRCOphthMCQ—to help you choose the best resource for mastering FRCOphth Part 1 questions and giving you the best chance of passing the FRCOphth Part 1 exam.
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a type of bilateral allergic conjunctivitis that involves chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva that can also involve cornea. Typical onset is during childhood and it can present with seasonal variation with patient’s commonly experiencing flares during the spring and summer.
Bilateral Anterior Segment Dysgenesis (BASD) encompasses a group of rare congenital anomalies involving abnormal development of the cornea, iris, lens, and anterior chamber angle. These conditions often result in visual impairment, glaucoma, and associated systemic abnormalities. This article explores specific syndromes linked to BASD, including Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, Peter’s anomaly, aniridia, and ICE syndrome. It provides an updated perspective on clinical features, underlying mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies to enhance recognition and treatment of this complex condition.
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is the most common primary vasculitis in adults, primarily affecting individuals over 50 years of age. It is characterised by granulomatous inflammation of medium- to large-sized vessels, particularly the extracranial branches of the carotid artery, such as the temporal artery. GCA leads to the degradation of vascular smooth muscle cells and elastic fibres, resulting in vascular remodelling, aneurysm formation, and ischemic complications due to intimal thickening and vessel occlusion. The association between blindness and temporal arteritis was recognised as early as the 10th century by Ali-ibn-Isa of Baghdad. In 1890, Hutchinson first described the clinical characteristics of GCA, and in 1930, Horton and his colleagues provided a detailed account of its histopathological features.