Neurofibromatosis type 2 – diagnosis, features and MDT approach
NF2 is a genetic condition caused by mutation in a single gene (NF2 gene) on chromosome 22. The NF2 gene provides instructions to produce a protein called merlin, also known as schwannomin. This protein functions as a tumour suppressor, preventing...
Traumatic optic neuropathy
In neuro-ophthalmology we get asked a lot about management of patients who suffered significant trauma and presented with loss of vision secondary to presumed traumatic optic neuropathy (TON). TON happens usually in the context of significant craniofacial trauma. The incidence...
The management of antiplatelets and anticoagulation in elective ophthalmic surgery
Clinical scenario: A 57-year-old gentleman who is scheduled to have Mohs micrographic surgery and reconstruction for a medial canthal basel cell carcinoma (BCC) has been started on aspirin and clopidogrel following a coronary stent three weeks ago. Does the antiplatelet...
Managing a patient with ptosis
A 50-year-old male patient is referred from the Accident & Emergency department with a history of ptosis. How will you manage this patient? Mr Bertie Fernando Clinical management Clinical management starts with a sound clinical history. Current history The history...
The perfect interview to land the dream consultant job
Eight top tips for consultant interviews: 1. A person is not just an ophthalmologist. Trusts are appointing the person not just the ophthalmologist. On a consultant interview panel (AAC) there will be non-ophthalmologists (e.g. medical director, chief executive, lay chair)...
Dark circles and facial rejuvenation
A 45-year-old socialite lady comes for cosmetic consultation and wants a remedy for dark circles and facial ageing. How do you manage this patient? Issues of dark circles and facial ageing should be addressed separately. Facial ageing should be considered...
Ocular electrophysiology
A 34-year-old woman, who is a CEO in a multinational firm, has been losing vision over the last 12 months. She has seen her opticians, who initially tried different glasses but could not improve things. Clinical examination is unremarkable. How...