The human eye, once thought to be a nearly sterile environment, harbours a distinct microbial community known as the ocular microbiome. This diverse population of bacteria, fungi, and viruses plays a crucial role in maintaining ocular surface health and preventing infections. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and metagenomics have provided deeper insights into the composition and function of the ocular microbiome, revealing its involvement in both health and disease states. This article explores the ocular microbiome’s composition, its role in ocular health, its involvement in disease and potential therapeutic implications.

Corneal abrasions are defects in the epithelial surface of the cornea. The cornea is particularly exposed to injury as it forms the outermost layer of the eye. The function of the cornea involves forming a protective shield for the eye, filtration of ultraviolet light and to facilitate the refraction of light onto the retina. Corneal abrasions typically result from injury due to mechanical trauma such as from fingernails, tree branches, makeup brushes or contact lens use. Other documented causes include burn injuries and foreign bodies. In the UK, presentation of corneal injuries and foreign bodies to primary care have been reported as 3.2 and 2.7 cases respectively per 1000 people each year.

Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) is a condition first described by Chang and Campbell in 2005. It is characterized by abnormal iris behaviour during cataract surgery, particularly in patients taking systemic alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists like tamsulosin. Recognizing and managing IFIS is crucial for preventing intraoperative complications and ensuring favourable surgical outcomes.

Sebaceous cell carcinoma is a rare cancer of sebaceous glands that most commonly affects the eyelids (75%). The approximate global incidence rate varies between 1 to 3 people per one million person-years. There were just over 700 diagnoses in England between 1999 and 2008. Due to similar presentations, sebaceous carcinoma can sometimes be misdiagnosed as a chalazion, hordeolum, basal cell carcinoma or blepharoconjunctivitis - causing delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Ocular toxocariasis, predominantly caused by Toxocara Canis, is a common Zoonotic parasitosis worldwide. Toxocara infection is a cause of visual impairment and blindness. The presented case report describes a patient diagnosed with toxocara panuveitis and its early management with diagnostic and therapeutic vitrectomy with excellent visual outcome.

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction, characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness. Ocular manifestations are often the first and most common presentation of MG, making early recognition by ophthalmologists crucial in preventing systemic progression and improving patient outcomes.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. OCT uses light waves to capture detailed images, similar to ultrasound but with light instead of sound waves. OCT can be particularly helpful in diagnosing macular holes, epiretinal membranes, vitreomacular traction, macular oedema and exudates and detachments of the retina. Here is a guide to basic OCT interpretation.

Incontinentia Pigmenti (IP), also called Bloch-Sulzberger syndrome is a rare genetic disorder primarily caused by mutations in the NEMO gene (Nuclear Factor-kappa B Essential Modulator) also known as the IKBKG gene. It is a primary immunodeficiency disorder that affects the skin, hair, teeth, eyes, and central nervous system.

Retinoblastoma is the most common paediatric intraocular malignancy, accounting for around 3% of all childhood cancers. Due to their aggressive and potentially life-threatening nature, early diagnosis and treatment are essential. Recent advances in genetic testing, imaging, and targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes in those affected by retinoblastoma. This article explores the latest advancements in the diagnosis and management of this potentially life-threatening disease.

Deciding to embark on a career in ophthalmology has been a profoundly rewarding journey, marked by a commitment to mastering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Among the most valuable aspects of the application process has been the pursuit of ophthalmic surgical simulation experience. This reflection explores the structured steps one can take to develop surgical skills and the insights gained from these experiences.