Browsing by Author "Smit, Derrick"

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    Anti-infective ophthalmic preparations in general practice
    (Medpharm Publications, 2012) Smit, Derrick
    Ocular infections may be bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic in aetiology. Pharmacological preparations are available to treat infections that are caused by these groups of organisms. The majority of these preparations are intended for topical administration, although some systemically administered agents may be needed to treat or prevent specific ocular infections. This article discusses the different anti-infective options that are available to general practitioners to treat infections caused by each aetiological group. It also discusses the role that is played by povidone-iodine and antibiotic-steroid combinations to manage eye infections. A summary of all these drugs is provided in table form for easy reference.
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    Dealing with dry eye disease in general practice
    (Medpharm Publications, 2012) Smit, Derrick
    Dry eye disease (DED) is a very common condition with significant morbitity. It is under-diagnosed by healthcare practitioners, since the presenting symptoms are often non-specific or misleading, and clinical signs may be subtle, or absent. To help overcome this problem, validated symptom questionnaires have been developed to aid the diagnosis, and grading of severity, of DED. Recent advances in the understanding of the multifactorial aetiology of this condition have also permitted the development of modalities aimed at treating specific underlying causes, rather than merely alleviating symptoms. An awareness of the causes and risk factors involved in this disease will assist the family practitioner in recommending lifestyle and dietary changes that, on their own, may provide sufferers with considerable symptomatic relief. A better understanding of the pathophysiology will, in turn, allow the family practitioner to make informed choices when prescribing initial treatment, and also guide the practitioner to know when to refer a patient for specialist management.