Course: Papilloedema

Section

General

No CPD Points

Course Summary

Michael Johnson & Adam Wannell (15:17)

Adam Wannell from Bristol Eye Hospital talks to Michael Johnson, a community optometrist practising in Gloucestershire and at Bristol Eye Hospital, about papilloedema. Papilloedema is the characteristic swelling of the optic disk secondary to elevated intracranial pressure, and without treatment can progress to total loss of vision. More importantly, if this sign is missed, the associated high intracranial pressure can damage the brain and even cause death. Many patients with papilloedema first present to their optometrist, and, although relatively rare, optometrists working in the community have a very important role in the early identification and correct management of this condition.

First published in DOCET OQ85 (2013).

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Learning objectives

To provide listeners with:

An outline of the various presenting signs and symptoms associated with this condition, both ocular and systemic
An outline of how the various presenting signs and symptoms vary in different age/patient groups
An understanding of differential diagnoses
An outline of the role optometrists play in the early diagnosis, management and referral of patients with this condition
An outline of the various causes of papilloedema