Ophthalmic Imaging Team Leader, Kim Baxter, had two photographs accepted:

Ischaemic Diabetic Retinopathy (top) Fluorescein angiography image used to document vascular changes in the eye caused by diabetic retinopathy. The changes occur when the blood vessel walls are damaged or weakened by diabetes, compromising the blood and oxygen supply to the retina. Fluorescein angiography involves an injection of sodium fluorescein dye into a vein in the arm, which is photographed as it travels through the blood vessels in the eye. It is commonly performed before laser treatment which is used to preserve vision. Ischaemic diabetic retinopathy indicates that parts of the retinal circulation have begun to shutdown because of an insufficient supply of oxygen. This irreversible process begins with the smallest capillaries and if left untreated expands to include larger vessels. In this image it can be clearly seen in the irregular black patch in centre of the image, indicating macula ischaemia.

 

Synechiae (bottom) Synechiae occurs when the iris becomes attached to the surface of the lens. It is often seen in uveitis (an inflammatory condition affecting the eye) however can also be caused by trauma or surgery. The image was taken using a camera attached to a slit lamp and shows the edge of the iris attached to the lens surface.

 

Clinical Photography Team Leader, Mark Bartley, submitted his photograph of Pectus Excavatum

Pectus excavatum is a concavity of the chest that is present at birth. It develops due to excess growth of the connecting tissues of the ribs and breastbones that pulls the chest inwards. It can create problems with the heart and lungs if the concavity is severe. The condition can be treated via surgery if problems do arise, or for cosmetic reasons. A metal bar is placed into the chest to support it, often by opening up the chest although keyhole surgey can also be used. This is usually done when patients are in their teens.

 

Stacey Bone took her photograph at CUH before moving on to her new post at Queen Victroria Hospital, East Grinstead.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited kidney disorder. It causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys. PKD may impair kidney function and cause kidney failure.

 

The photographs can be seen here