2015-2016 Basic and Clinical Science Course (BCSC), Section 8: External Disease and Cornea

2015-2016 Basic and Clinical Science Course, Section 08: External Disease and CorneaDiscusses the structure and function of the cornea and external eye and reviews relevant examination techniques. Covers infectious and ocular surface diseases; disorders and surgery of the ocular surface; immune-mediated and neoplastic disorders; and congenital anomalies and degenerations. A chapter on the genetics of corneal dystrophies reflects the IC3D classification. Toxic and traumatic injuries and corneal transplantation are also reviewed.Upon completion of Section 8, readers should be able to:* Describe the anatomy and molecular biology of the cornea* Recognize the distinctive signs of specific diseases of the ocular surface and cornea* Outline the steps in an ocular examination for corneal or external eye disease and choose the appropriate laboratory and other diagnostic tests* Assess the indications and techniques of surgical procedures for managing corneal disease, trauma, and refractive errorSection chair: Robert W. Weisenthal, MDAbout the BCSCThe Academy's Basic and Clinical Science Course (BCSC) is ophthalmology's definitive compilation of scientific research and clinical experience. It is continually updated by a faculty of more than 80 expert ophthalmologists. Each of the 13 volumes includes fundamental clinical knowledge; numerous tables, photos and illustrations; self-assessment questions with answers; and opportunities for earning AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(TM).Beginning with the 2013-2014 edition, the Academy and the European Board of Ophthalmology (EBO) have partnered to make the BCSC the standard text for all European ophthalmology training programs. The EBO now recommends the BCSC as the primary educational resource for European trainees and ophthalmologists studying for the annual EBO Diploma Exam.