Chronic visual loss can be age-related or secondary to an underlying pathological process. Chronic open angle glaucoma is one serious cause of chronic visual loss that, if missed, can lead to permanent vision loss. Patients must also be carefully evaluated for refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
At the conclusion of this activity, participants will be able to apply a comprehensive approach to assessing a patient presenting with chronic visual loss and create an appropriate list of differential diagnoses.
The learner will acquire knowledge on questions to ask in the history, including whether visual loss is perceived as serious. The learner will also be able to recognize physical findings on examination, including increased eye pressure measurements, absence of the red reflex, and a pale optic nerve. The learner will acquire knowledge applying a comprehensive diagnostic approach and recognize the signs and symptoms of chronic open angle glaucoma, which must be evaluated urgently to prevent visual loss. Finally, the learner will be able to identify and assess other conditions causing chronic visual loss, including refractive errors and diabetic retinopathy.