Certified Paraoptometric Practice Test

Which eye condition may necessitate a referral to a specialist?

1. Glaucoma

2. Allergy conjunctivitis

3. Retinal detachment

4. Dry eye syndrome

The correct answer is: Retinal detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention. It occurs when the retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, becomes separated from its underlying supportive tissue. This detachment can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Symptoms like sudden flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in the visual field may indicate this condition. In most cases, the management of retinal detachment involves surgical procedures that can only be performed by eye care specialists, such as ophthalmologists. They are trained to diagnose the specific type of detachment and to implement the necessary surgical techniques to reattach the retina effectively, making a referral essential. Other conditions, such as glaucoma, allergic conjunctivitis, and dry eye syndrome, may require monitoring or treatment but often can be managed within a general optometric practice without immediate referral to a specialist. While these conditions can be serious if not treated, they typically allow for more time to pursue non-specialist treatment options or monitoring before escalation to specialist care.