Visual loss remains the most feared complication of giant cell arteritis (GCA), often resulting in permanent disability despite prompt treatment. Although the classical features of GCA are well described, real-world presentations of GCA-related visual loss are frequently heterogeneous, subtle or atypical, contributing to delayed recognition and poor outcomes. This case series describes the visual presentations, warning symptoms and visual outcomes of patients with confirmed GCA-related vision loss managed at a district general hospital. By integrating these observations with existing literature, this article explores recurring patterns, diagnostic pitfalls and clinical reflections relevant to trainees across multiple specialties. The findings reinforce the need for a high index of suspicion, even in the absence of classical prodromal symptoms, and highlight the narrow therapeutic window for preventing irreversible visual impairment.

Ocular hypotony is classically defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) below 6.5 mmHg (statistical definition) or as an IOP low enough to result in visual loss (clinical definition). Persistent hypotony can result in hypotony maculopathy, a condition first described by Dellaporta in 1954, which is characterised by chorioretinal folds, retinal vascular tortuosity, and optic disc oedema. Recognition of hypotony maculopathy is key, as this can be sight-threatening and timely intervention may prevent permanent visual loss.

I attended the Edinburgh FOCUS Foundation Ophthalmology Course in Edinburgh a few weeks ago. As an FY3 doctor aiming to enter ophthalmology training, I wanted a course that would translate quickly into confidence with daily ophthalmic assessment and common acute presentations. The structured course delivered: concise teaching followed by lots of supported practice, with repeated opportunities to apply skills to cases. The course fee was £500.

During a recent cataract list I attended, I learned about the soft-shell technique in the most unexpected way. The consultant was operating at incredible speed, and in the middle of the case she asked me to look up the technique and explain it to the scrub nurse before the end of the operation.

This article outlines the structure of the MSRA, recommends useful resources, provides revision strategies and shares exam‑day techniques—based on my own experience achieving a score within the top 1% nationally last year.

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common group of hereditary retinal disorders, characterised by the progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina, leading to gradual loss of vision. Rod dysfunction causes night blindness and peripheral visual loss, followed by cone involvement affecting central and colour vision.

A significant minority of vision-threatening disorders do not declare themselves in an obviously ocular manner. Instead, they present with systemic, neurological, or facial symptoms and are therefore assessed initially in general ED areas rather than specialist ophthalmic pathways. These atypical presentations can easily be misattributed to more common non-ophthalmic conditions, delaying diagnosis and risking permanent visual morbidity. The following sections outline key ophthalmic diseases that disproportionately present to the ED because their first manifestation is not recognised as ophthalmic at all.

If you’re early in your ophthalmology journey and looking for a role that offers more than the typical service job, the Resident Academic Research Fellow position is genuinely worth considering. It brings together clinical work, academic development, teaching, and the chance to think more deeply about the specialty. For anyone who enjoys learning, asking questions, and getting involved in meaningful work, it’s an incredibly fulfilling role.

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a chronic autoimmune scarring disorder of the conjunctiva that may progress to severe visual morbidity. This review provides an overview of its clinical features, underlying immunopathology, diagnostic evaluation, and current management strategies, highlighting the importance of early recognition and systemic therapy.

As a Foundation Year 2 Doctor aspiring to train in Ophthalmology, the MSRA represents one of the first major hurdles on the path to specialty training. While it might feel like “just another exam,” success here is crucial. It opens doors to interviews and ultimately gives you a real chance of entering this competitive specialty. Beyond portfolio points, preparing for the MSRA helps you consolidate a breadth of medical knowledge that will serve you throughout your career.