This guideline last updated 07/05/2022 9:31:01

Differential diagnosis

• Foreign body (corneal or sub-tarsal)
• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Idiopathic acute anterior uveitis

Possible management by Optometrist

Treatment

• Topical local anaesthetic to aid examination
• Topical lubricant (gel-based or ointment) for symptomatic relief

Advice

• Symptoms will resolve with suture removal
• In a graft, suture needs to be resolved urgently to prevent onset of rejection

Management Category

• Urgent (within one week) referral
• Same day referral if:
  • Evidence of infection / inflammation
  • Wound leak present
  • Corneal transplant suture

Possible management by Ophthalmologist

• Removal of offending suture