Disc swelling dilemmas with Lorcan Butler

Nothing provokes more anxiety in optometric practice or in an ophthalmology emergency clinic than the patient presenting with headaches and suspected optic disc swelling.The long shadow cast by the Honey Rose case has lead to a tsunami of referrals to the Hospital Eye Service and in many cases unnecessary neuroimaging.The timely recognition of papilloedema can be life saving. Our conversation with Lorcan Butler of The Brain Tumour charity gives clinicians a clear framework for managing these patients with confidence. He emphasises the importance of taking a good history, accurately assessing the optic nerve function and knowing the OCT features that help distinguish papilloedema from pseudo disc swelling.The OCT features of PHOMS are discussed in the bonus audio and the subscribers’ newsletter features articles on OCT optic disc imaging, idiopathic intracranial hypertension and how machine modelling AI can classify and quantify papilloedema.All in all a perfect package for your Easter listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit eyesontomorrow.substack.com/subscribe