As optometrists, we have the opportunity to play an important role in maintaining good vision by making the correct diagnoses and initiating appropriate treatment for patients with corneal dystrophies and degenerations.
Regardless of practice emphasis, optometrists will likely encounter the corneal dystrophies and degenerations that are discussed in this course. Those involved at the primary care level may be the first to diagnose a sight-threatening condition and prevent vision loss with the aid of minor procedures or medical intervention. Those who specialize in contact lenses may be able to postpone or even prevent surgical intervention and can help with visual rehabilitation following corneal transplantation. The pediatric optometrist may make the initial diagnosis of a corneal dystrophy, and those involved with low vision may be called upon to provide optical aids for patients with otherwise untreatable degenerations or dystrophies.
After an initial orientation to the terms dystrophy and degeneration, this course will consider major degenerations and dystrophies that occur in the individual corneal layers. Management modalities will also be presented.
Louise A. Sclafani, OD
Company: Pacific University
CE Credits: 3
CE Format: Online text/photos
COPE ID: 14256-AS