Corneal Abrasion: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

Corneal Abrasion: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

A 23-year-old male presents with eye pain, photophobia, and a foreign body sensation after removing his contact lenses. Fluorescein staining reveals a linear corneal epithelial defect. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Prescribe anti-pseudomonal antibiotic eye drops
B. Patch the affected eye for 24 hours
C. Oral corticosteroids
D. Reassure and discharge
E. Immediate surgical consultation

Answer and topic summary

The answer is A. Prescribe anti-pseudomonal antibiotic eye drops

A corneal abrasion is a scrape or scratch injury on the corneal epithelium. Etiologies include injury from an object, foreign body in the eye, prolonged contact lens usage, UV light, and dry eyes. Clinical features include eye pain, blurry vision, a “foreign body sensation” in the eye, conjunctival injection, and photophobia. Diagnosis is made via examining the eye with fluorescein staining. Treatment includes topical NSAIDs and antibiotic eye drops or ointment (Note: anti-pseudomonal coverage is indicated in contact lens wearers).

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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:

Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint EENT ⇒ Traumatic disorders ⇒ Corneal abrasion

Also covered as part of the Family Medicine EOREmergency Medicine EOR topic lists

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