Description

Progress in Ophthalmology is made in leaps and bounds, none more so than in the assessment and treatment of macular diseases. This issue of CE Optometry is therefore quite rightly focused on the macula. Following the Guidelines of the National Institute of Clinical Excellence,1 it was decided that the Photodynamic therapy (PDT) service should be implemented by June 2004. Currently, there are nearly 50 NHS centres nationwide providing PDT to patients. Availability of the treatment however, is only half the logistics. Patients with treatable disease need prompt referrals. PDT slows down deterioration. When the patient deteriorated to less than 6/60 vision, they become ineligible for treatment. Most patients present to optometrists and general practitioners as the first point of contact. It is important for all those who provide primary care to recognise and make appropriate clinical diagnoses and make urgent referrals.2 The window of opportunity for treatment in terms of time may be small. Rahman and Stanga give clear and succinct information on which patients are suitable for treatment, and outline the evidence base behind PDT.