Introductory Ophthalmology

At the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. describe basic ocular anatomy and physiology; 2. demonstrate history taking; 3. measure and record visual acuity; 4. test for direct, consensual, and afferent pupillary reflexes; 5. explain and perform direct ophthalmoscopy; 6. discuss normal fundus appearance of the optic disc, macula and major blood vessels; 7. demonstrate knowledge of ocular pharmacokinetics routes of applications of ophthalmic medications; 8. describe the direct ophthalmoscope for fundoscopy; and 9. apply eye drops and ointments.

Basic anatomy and physiology of eye and orbit. Basic anatomy of vitreous and retina, symptoms suggestive of vitreoretinal diseases (flashes, floaters, blurring, distortions, abrupt or progressive dimming of vision, abrupt or progressive loss of peripheral visual field in one eye). Examination of the normal fundus with direct ophthalmoscope. Fundus features of important systemic diseases (diabetic, hypertension). The red eye. Painful/painless acute vision loss. Ocular injuries. Chemical burns.