Dermoscopy in Primary Care.

Dermoscopy is a noninvasive technique that allows in vivo magnification of the skin structures and helps in visualizing microscopic features that are imperceptible to the naked eye. Dermoscopy is not a substitute for biopsy and histopathologic evaluation, but is an important tool that can help increase diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of cutaneous lesions. Dermoscopy increases the diagnostic sensitivity compared with naked eye examination. A significant improvement in diagnostic accuracy for benign and malignant lesions has been reported among family medicine physicians after an introductory training course on dermoscopy.

Ocular emergencies.

Prompt recognition and appropriate treatment of ocular emergencies are essential in the primary care setting when the outcome may depend on timely management. All ocular emergencies, including a penetrating globe injury, retinal detachment, central retinal artery occlusion, acute angle-closure glaucoma, and chemical burns, should be referred immediately to the emergency department or an ophthalmologist. Careful eye examination and simple tests can help primary care physicians make decisions about appropriate treatment and referral. All patients with eye problems should be tested for visual acuity and ocular movements. Confrontation visual field examination, pupillary examination, and direct ophthalmoscopy of both eyes also should be performed. Ocular injury from high-velocity trauma or from chemicals may be easily misdiagnosed. After a chemical burn, thorough eye washing for at least 30 minutes or until the pH of the eye is within physiologic range is critical to prevent further damage. Use of an eye shield is required in patients with a ruptured globe to protect the injured eye and preserve the patient's vision.