Pharmacology & Ocular Therapeutics Flashcards

Which systemic medication is most commonly associated with cornea verticillata (whorl-like corneal epithelial deposits)?

Answer: Amiodarone

Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, commonly produces cornea verticillata due to drug accumulation in the corneal epithelium.

Long-term hydroxychloroquine use primarily puts which ocular structure at risk?

Answer: Retina (bull's-eye maculopathy)

Hydroxychloroquine can cause bull's-eye maculopathy with parafoveal photoreceptor loss, requiring annual screening with OCT and visual fields.

Steroid-induced elevation of intraocular pressure occurs because corticosteroids:

Answer: Reduce outflow facility through the trabecular meshwork

Corticosteroids reduce aqueous outflow through the trabecular meshwork in susceptible individuals, elevating IOP without increasing production.

First-line topical antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated bacterial conjunctivitis typically includes:

Answer: Topical fluoroquinolone or polymyxin B/trimethoprim

Broad-spectrum topical antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones or polymyxin B combinations are first-line for uncomplicated bacterial conjunctivitis.

Prescribing topical corticosteroids for a patient with undiagnosed herpetic keratitis risks:

Answer: Worsening viral replication and potential corneal perforation

Topical steroids suppress the immune response in HSV keratitis, allowing viral replication to accelerate and potentially causing corneal ulceration or perforation.

Topical NSAIDs (e.g., ketorolac, bromfenac) are used in ophthalmic practice primarily for:

Answer: Managing pain and inflammation after cataract surgery

Topical NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis to control postoperative pain, photophobia, and inflammation without the risks of steroid-induced cataract or IOP elevation.