Ophthalmologic Emergencies
Despite sharing similar eye size and anatomy with adults, pediatric patients have unique patterns of ophthalmic infection and injury. Children, especially neonates, have a significantly less developed resistance to the systemic and central nervous system complications associated with ophthalmic infections and trauma. This chapter reviews pediatric eye conditions with a focus on practical approaches for diagnosis and treatment. Special considerations for neonatal conjunctivitis and dacryocystitis are addressed including indications for systemic treatment and criteria for admission. Guidelines are given for the treatment of household chemical exposure and for eye injuries from foreign bodies or blunt trauma. Common and atypical presentations are discussed. Treatment and selected procedures are detailed.