NBEO Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What class of medication is used as first-line treatment for glaucoma?
- Prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost) that increase uveoscleral outflow to lower intraocular pressure (Correct answer)
- Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
- Corticosteroids
Correct answer: Prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost) that increase uveoscleral outflow to lower intraocular pressure
Prostaglandin analogs are the most commonly prescribed first-line glaucoma medications, reducing IOP by 25-33% through increased outflow of aqueous humor via the uveoscleral pathway, with once-daily dosing.
Question 2: What are cycloplegic and mydriatic agents used for in optometry?
- Cycloplegics paralyze accommodation for accurate refraction; mydriatics dilate the pupil for fundus examination (Correct answer)
- They treat eye infections
- They lower intraocular pressure
- They improve night vision
Correct answer: Cycloplegics paralyze accommodation for accurate refraction; mydriatics dilate the pupil for fundus examination
Cycloplegics (e.g., cyclopentolate) paralyze the ciliary muscle for objective refraction in children. Mydriatics (e.g., tropicamide) dilate the pupil for retinal examination. Some agents have both properties.
Question 3: What are anti-VEGF injections used to treat?
- Wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor that drives abnormal blood vessel growth (Correct answer)
- Dry eyes
- Cataracts
- Refractive errors
Correct answer: Wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor that drives abnormal blood vessel growth
Anti-VEGF agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab) are injected intravitreally to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in wet AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
Question 4: What is the treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis?
- Topical broad-spectrum antibiotic eye drops or ointment such as fluoroquinolones or erythromycin (Correct answer)
- Oral antihistamines
- Steroid injections
- Surgical intervention
Correct answer: Topical broad-spectrum antibiotic eye drops or ointment such as fluoroquinolones or erythromycin
Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, or erythromycin ointment). Broad-spectrum coverage is typically used empirically, with culture-guided therapy for severe or resistant cases.
Question 5: What are the side effects of topical corticosteroid eye drops?
- Elevated intraocular pressure (steroid-induced glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract formation, and increased risk of infection (Correct answer)
- No side effects
- Only mild stinging
- Permanent pupil dilation
Correct answer: Elevated intraocular pressure (steroid-induced glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract formation, and increased risk of infection
Prolonged topical steroid use can elevate IOP (steroid response), accelerate cataract formation, impair wound healing, and increase susceptibility to infections (herpes simplex, fungal), requiring careful monitoring.
Question 6: What is fluorescein staining used for in optometry?
- To detect corneal epithelial defects, evaluate tear film stability (TBUT), and assess contact lens fitting (Correct answer)
- To change eye color temporarily
- To measure intraocular pressure only
- To test pupil reactions
Correct answer: To detect corneal epithelial defects, evaluate tear film stability (TBUT), and assess contact lens fitting
Fluorescein sodium dye (viewed with cobalt blue light) highlights corneal abrasions, ulcers, and epithelial irregularities, and is used for tear break-up time measurement and evaluating contact lens-cornea interaction.
NBEO Pharmacology & Ocular Disease Treatment
What class of medication is used as first-line treatment for glaucoma?