Primary Care Approach to Eye Conditions

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Many patients present to the primary care physician with complaints relating to the eye. While many are benign, others can be vision threatening. Performing a thorough history and physical can quickly assess the severity. More common, often benign conditions include conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, blepharitis, subconjunctival hemorrhage, corneal abrasion, stye, chalazion, ectropion, entropion and episcleritis. Other more complex conditions include ptosis and cataracts. Vision-threatening conditions including uveitis, malignancies, retinal detachment, acute angle closure glaucoma, globe injuries and chemical burns require immediate recognition and referral to an ophthalmologist.