Cataracts

Question 1

what is a cataract?

Answer 1

clouding of the lens

Question 2

risk factors for cataracts

Answer 2

smoking
alcohol
hypocalcaemia
age
congenital
steroids
trauma
DM

Question 3

presentation of cataracts

Answer 3

gradual visual loss that is hazy/blurry
usually unilateral
difficulty driving, reading, watching TV
starbursts appear around lights, particularly at night

Question 4

diagnosis of cataracts

Answer 4

red reflex loss in congenital cataracts

red reflex lost on photos in adults

Question 5

management of cataracts

Answer 5

surgical removal with intra-ocular lens implant if symptomatic

Question 6

complications of cataract surgery

Answer 6

endophthalmitis

emergency intravitreal antibiotics required