Ocular Surface Conditions

Comprehensive Information and resources

What are Ocular Surface Conditions?

Ocular surface conditions include acute infections and red eye, injuries/trauma and other surface anomalies such as ocular surface tumours and corneal scarring. These are all anterior segment conditions that are treated at The Eye Health Centre.

What are the types of Ocular Surface Conditions?

Ocular Surface Tumour

Benign and malignant tumours can grow on the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, and the iris. The three most commonly seen ocular surface tumours are Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia’s (OSSN), Ocular Melanoma, and Lymphoid tumours. It is important that any abnormal lumps, bumps or pigment changes on the eye are biopsied when required, and closely monitored over time in case of change.

Treatment for any ocular surface tumour is tailored to the patient, and is dependent on the size and nature of the tumour. Surgical excision may be required, with medicated eye drops either a complimentary or stand-alone treatment option.

  • Interferon is an eye drop that induces the body’s immune system to attack abnormal cells.
  • Mitomycin C is a chemotherapy eye drop often utilised to kill any remaining abnormal cells.

Corneal Scarring/Ocular Trauma

Dr Andrew Apel and Dr John Hogden commonly performs anterior segment/corneal repair surgery following trauma to the front of the eye. This includes penetrating injury which may rupture the globe, tear the cornea, conjunctiva and/or iris, or dislocate the intraocular lens.

Some patients can incur permanent scarring to the cornea as a result of previous injury, chemical burn, infection, or a degenerative corneal condition. This can result in poor vision, discomfort or a disfigured appearance to the front of the eye.

Treatment options may include Excimer Laser Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) for suitable cases. This procedure removes corneal scarring and superficial opacities, smooths the corneal surface, and improves the adherence of corneal epithelium.

Ocular Emergency

At The Eye Health Centre, we will endeavour to see any anterior segment ocular emergency in the appropriate time frame. The Eye Health centre is a collaborative care clinic, with highly trained clinical optometry and ophthalmology services available 5 days a week. Ocular emergencies may include:

  • Acute red eye of unknown aetiology
  • Uveitis
  • Keratitis
  • Corneal Graft Rejection
  • Raised Intraocular Pressure
  • Trauma/Injury

Do you have a question or concern about your eye health? To discuss your condition with an experienced ophthalmologist or optometrist, please contact The Eye Health Centre