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The madarosis mystery: unravelling the clues to a host of health issues

Eyelash madarosis is a medical condition characterised by the loss of eyelashes caused by the destruction of hair follicles. It can range from a few missing lashes to a complete absence of lashes on the eyelids. This condition can be...

Retinal sequelae of high voltage electric current injury

Introduction High-voltage electrical currents may result in significant ocular complications, ranging from mild cataracts to vision-threatening retinal and optic nerve problems [1]. The severity of damage depends on various factors, including intensity and type of current, duration of exposure, entry...

Avoiding investigations through history taking and examinations to differentiate serious from comparably benign aetiology

*Joint first authors. Introduction Anisocoria can be a sign of neurological deficit, necessitating numerous investigations [1]. This case report explores how expensive and time-consuming investigations can be avoided by thorough history taking and examination to differentiate serious from comparably benign...

Birdshot retinochoroiditis

Birdshot retinochoroiditis (BRC) is a chronic, sight-threatening uveitis, most commonly affecting caucasian individuals in their fourth to sixth decades [1]. The disease is associated with HLA-29 and is characterised by progressive inflammation at the level of retina and choroid, with...

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare neuro-mucocutaneous disorder which is defined by a triad of orofacial oedema, furrowing of the tongue, and recurrent episodes of facial nerve palsy [1]. Due to the rarity of the disease and inconsistent presentation, MRS...

Training on the go

In this guide, we aim to provide trainees with novel ideas to maximise learning in the workplace to make the most of your working hours and balance the multiple demands on your time. They say time flies; and it really...

The Duke-Elder exam: A medical student’s head start into ophthalmology

The Duke-Elder exam is a specialist ophthalmology exam intended for medical students to sit during medical school. It is named after Sir Stewart Duke-Elder, a pioneering Scottish ophthalmologist who was active in the first half of the 20th Century by...

Should it be a mandatory requirement for medical students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to attend clinical attachments?

The vast majority of medical students have positive attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine for themselves and patients, however, what about the small inevitable minority who resist it? Should they be prevented from attending clinical attachments in the NHS? It is...

Will COVID-19 impact the selection of ophthalmology as a career choice by medical students?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound effects on medical education and has called for large shifts in the medical curriculum. Clinical attachments were suspended at the height of the pandemic and examinations were cancelled or were moved to an online...

‘Getting a head start’: ways medical students can boost their chances of entering ophthalmology training

Ophthalmology is one of the most competitive medical specialities in the UK, with 3.74 applicants per place in 2018 [1]. Given the competitive nature of this highly specialised field, medical students who are interested in pursuing a career in ophthalmology...

Preparing for the Duke Elder Award

The Duke Elder examination is an undergraduate ophthalmology exam, conducted by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) and undertaken by students with an interest in ophthalmology. It is a two-hour, 90-question, multiple choice exam with a broader curriculum than that...