Imaging in Disorders of the Visual System

Details

Title

Imaging in Disorders of the Visual System

Type

Stage One

Module code

HPS230

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST, in respect to imaging of the visual system, will be able to analyse, interpret and provide comprehensive diagnostic reports on images of the eye/visual system. They will apply their knowledge of the principles, instrumentation, methodology and clinical application of fundus autofluorescence (FAF), optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrasound and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) to assess the structure and integrity of the anterior chamber, vitreous, retinal layers, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid. The Clinical Scientist will identify situations where the use of FAF is indicated, understand how to capture high-quality FAF images, and through an advanced understanding of the FAF patterns differentiate between disease of the photoreceptor, RPE, or choroid. The Clinical Scientist will identify situations where the use of various scanning modalities of OCT is indicated to assess the integrity and thickness of the retinal layers, particularly at the macular and optic nerve head in visual disorders. They will also have advanced knowledge of the clinical applications of ocular ultrasound and interpretation of the images obtained to assess the structure of the anterior segment, globe, vitreous, scleral structures and in the diagnosis and monitoring of visual disorders. The Clinical Scientist in HSST will apply advanced specialist knowledge and understanding of the clinical indications of FFA and be able to interpret FFA images in the diagnosis and monitoring in visual disorders involving the retinal/choroidal vasculature. They will be able to use FFA to identify loss of integrity of the retinal vessels and RPE, and structural alteration of the retinal vasculature. The Clinical Scientist in HSST will also be able to formulate an appropriate plan for investigation and management, in conjunction with medical colleagues, being aware of the need to expedite investigation in suspected serious disease.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will analyse, interpret and report, using their expert knowledge with respect to:

• recognition of normal and abnormal structures/features present on ophthalmic imaging;
• identification of the causes of abnormal structures/features present on ophthalmic imaging;
• identification and differentiation of artefacts present on ophthalmic imaging;
• appropriate disease pathophysiology.

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be expected to critically reflect and apply in practice a range of clinical and communication skills to advise and communicate effectively with patients, relevant clinicians, patients and the public, and other healthcare professionals and will:

• take a thorough, relevant and focused history;
• plan appropriate imaging investigations using specified protocols;
• interpret FAF, OCT, FFA and ultrasound images, and relate normal and abnormal results to the symptoms, signs, family history, medical history, etc.