655-032 Foundations of Ocular Function & Disease

This subject is only available to BOptom students.

Approval from the Head of Department.

The purpose of this subject is to guide candidates in reinforcing and further developing their knowledge of the biomedical and psychophysical sciences, specifically in the context of normal ocular function, and the diagnosis and clinical management of abnormalities and disorders of the eye. The subject content will include:

• anatomy and embryology with an emphasis on clinically important structures, especially the blood supply to the brain, the cranial nerves relevant to ophthalmic practice, and embryology relevant to common congenital conditions;

• genetics of eye disease;

• biochemistry and metabolism: review of the key biochemical pathways; changes to ocular tissues in disease, metabolic demands of the retina, glucose and oxygen deprivation;

• general principles of pathology and immunology and their specific manifestations within the eye. Review of the general principles of pharmacology and microbiology and their specific application in the eye; and

• basic psychophysical techniques as applied to understanding of the light sense, colour vision, form sense (spatial/temporal resolution) and the perception of depth.

Two 2000-word assignments due during semester (20% each); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (60%).

Students will be provided with a comprehensive study guide, which will provide basic information and direct students to specific texts for detailed study.