A Review of Neuro-ophthalmologic Emergencies

Authors

  • Bassey Fiebai Department of Ophthalmology, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt

Keywords:

Neuro-ophthalmology, Emergency, Ocular Morbidity

Abstract

Background: Neuro-ophthalmic emergencies are relatively uncommon, however their outcome cause severe morbidity and even mortality. The ocular manifestations of these disorders are pointers to a more dangerous central nervous system or systemic pathology. The review aims to highlight the major ocular disorders that constitute neuro-ophthalmologic emergencies with a view to increasing the index of suspicion of these visual/life threatening disorders among primary care physicians, neurologists and ophthalmologists.

Method: The available literature on neuro-ophthalmologic emergencies was reviewed, using available journals and internet based search engines and resources. Keywords employed were Neuro-ophthalmology Emergency and Ocular Morbidity.

Results: The incidence of this group of emergencies is lower than that of other ophthalmic emergencies such as ruptured globe and retinal detachment; however they are associated with higher morbidity and even mortality. These emergencies can be grouped into four major categories for ease of diagnosis. Nigerian literature on neuro- ophthalmologic emergencies was unavailable.

Conclusion: The key to prevention of morbidity and mortality from neuro-ophthalmologic disorders is to have a good knowledge of the manifestations of these disorders and a high index of suspicion.

Author Biography

Bassey Fiebai, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt

Lecturer and Consultant Opthalmologist

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Published

2015-11-30

How to Cite

Fiebai, B. (2015). A Review of Neuro-ophthalmologic Emergencies. The Nigerian Health Journal, 10(1-2), 1. Retrieved from https://tnhjph.com/index.php/tnhj/article/view/29

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