The Neuromuscular Lab focuses on alleviating pain resulting from peripheral nerve injuries, including neuromas, and explores the functional neural control of prosthetic limbs. Unlike central nervous system neural cells, peripheral nerves can regenerate.

Research conducted by Neuromuscular Labs at the University of Michigan Department of Surgery delves into understanding the regeneration process, creating innovative technologies, and developing surgical techniques to improve patient outcomes following peripheral nerve damage (University of Michigan Department of Surgery Research, 2019). This article will discuss eye exams and the consequences of neglecting them.

Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam comprises various tests designed to evaluate eyesight and detect eye conditions. Tests may involve looking through different lenses, using various tools, and shining lights into the eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a complete eye exam at age 40, especially for those without apparent vision issues (American Academy of Ophthalmology, n.d.).

Regular eye exams, occurring annually or biennially for individuals aged 60 or older, contact lens or glasses users, those with a history of vision loss, genetic eye illnesses, chronic conditions like diabetes, or using medications with adverse eye effects, are crucial (Mayo Clinic, 2019). Tests such as eye muscle tests, visual acuity tests, and refraction assessments contribute to a thorough eye examination (Mayo Clinic, 2019).

Examining the eyes aids in preventing or limiting damage caused by certain eye problems, with over 75 percent of sight loss and blindness being avoidable through treatment or lifestyle modifications (Toli et al., 2021). Recent research indicates mitochondrial flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) transporter deficiencies as a cause of neuromuscular malfunctioning, resulting in a neuro-myopathic phenotype (Al Shamsi et al., 2021).

Importance of Reflex Measurement in Diagnostic Eye Exams

Diagnostic eye exams often incorporate reflex measurement as it provides valuable information for localizing the source of neuromuscular disease. Reflex testing becomes a crucial tool in accurate bedside diagnosis, offering insights not obtainable through other means like clinical neurophysiological and neuroradiological investigations (Palmer et al., 2020).

Consequences of Neglecting Reflex Measurement

Neglecting reflex measurement during eye exams can lead to unidentified infections and diseases, posing a risk to timely treatment and potentially creating a barrier to addressing eye issues that might contribute to brain injuries (Stuart et al., 2020).

Patient Examinations

Patient 1: Elena

• Age: 36
• Complaint: Red eye and pain
• Blood Pressure: 140/90 mm Hg
• Past Ocular History: Similar episodes reported
• Eye Test: Reduced vision diagnosed
• Possible Resolution: Avoiding high beam lights recommended

Patient 2: Manav Dutt

• Age: 45
• Complaint: Blurred vision, frequent headache
• Blood Pressure: 140/90 mm Hg
• Past Ocular and Medical History: Hypertension, chain smoking
• Eye Test: Partial blindness due to chemical injury diagnosed
• Possible Resolution: Immediate intervention recommended, referral to ophthalmologist

Patient 3: Spencer Hogle

• Age: 36
• Occupation: Factory worker
• Complaint: Eye bleeding
• Blood Pressure: 113/80 mm Hg
• Past Ocular and Medical History: No similar issues reported
• Eye Test: Corrosive chemical metal damage diagnosed
• Possible Resolution: Immediate surgery by an expert ophthalmologist required

Conclusion

Regular eye exams, encompassing various tests, play a crucial role in identifying and addressing eye issues. Reflex measurement during diagnostic eye exams aids in localizing the source of neuromuscular disease. Timely eye examinations are essential to prevent unidentified issues and ensure prompt treatment.

References

Al Shamsi, B., Al Murshedi, F., Al Habsi, A., & Al-Thihli, K. (2021). Hypoketotic hypoglycemia without neuromuscular complications in patients with SLC25A32 deficiency. European Journal of Human Genetics. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41431-021-00995-7

American Academy of Ophthalmology. (n.d.). Eye exam – Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/eye-exam/about/pac-20384655

BIO FPX 1000 Assessment 2 Neuromuscular Lab

Mayo Clinic. (2019). Eye exam – Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/eye-exam/about/pac-20384655

Palmer, J. J., Jones, C., Surur, E. I., & Kelly, A. H. (2020). Understanding the role of the diagnostic “Reflex” in the elimination of human African trypanosomiasis. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 5(2), 52. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5020052

Stuart, S., Parrington, L., Martini, D., Peterka, R., Chesnutt, J., & King, L. (2020). The measurement of eye movements in mild traumatic brain injury: A structured review of an emerging area. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 2. https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2020.00005

Toli, A., Perente, A., & Labiris, G. (2021). Evaluation of the red reflex: An overview for the pediatrician. World Journal of Methodology, 11(5), 263–277. https://doi.org/10.5662/wjm.v11.i5.263

University of Michigan Department of Surgery Research. (2019). Neuromuscular Lab | Surgery Research | Michigan Medicine. Surgery Research. https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/surgery-research/research-strengths/musculoskeletal-regenerative-medicine/neuromuscular-lab

BIO FPX 1000 Assessment 2 Neuromuscular Lab