The eye

Abstract

It is often assumed that learning how to assess a patient with an ophthalmic problem is all about measuring visual acuity and knowing how to use an ophthalmoscope. Although these are undoubtedly important skills it should be borne in mind that the eye does not exist in isolation and for many patients their 'eye' problems are associated with systemic disease. It is therefore important to consider the ophthalmic assessment in the context of a patient's general history and systemic examination. Figure 19.1 shows external and internal views of the eye illustrating key anatomical structures, and Table 19.1 details the anatomy and function of different eye structures.