Filamentary keratitis--the clinical challenges

Filamentary keratitis, while appearing to be a simple entity, can be a clinical challenge. Earlier investigators failed to understand the complexities of filament formation and its association with a variety of ocular and systemic conditions. Through trial and error a variety of treatment modalities were employed, ranging from the use of topical drops to the application of electrical current. In most cases filaments resolve with conventional therapy, but in other cases it can become chronic, eventually resulting in vascularization of the cornea.

Corneal neovascularization from extended wear lenses

It is the author's opinion that extended wear lenses should be fit with caution on patients who cannot wear or handle daily wear lenses or adapt to aphakic spectacles. Standard protocol after initial fitting should be to examine the anterior segment with the slit lamp for vascular changes every three months indefinitely without final discharge. Patients who cannot keep all of their follow-up appointments or cannot afford long-term professional fees and lens replacement costs should not be fit with extended wear lenses. It should be stressed to patients that any changes of vision or comfort require an immediate examination by their doctor.

Training of the ophthalmology resident by the optometrist

This presentation addresses the many facets of interdisciplinary cooperation in training of interns. Areas in which optometrists are strongly qualified to do so include physiological optics, contact lenses, low vision, and binocular vision. Attitudes toward the training of ophthalmologists by optometrists are explored, along with the positive benefits flowing from such cooperation.