A role of point-of-care ultrasound in the emergency department diagnosis of vision loss due to traumatic cataract

Abstract

BackgroundOcular complaints, including acute or subacute vision loss, are commonly encountered in emergency departments (ED). These potentially time-sensitive complaints are difficult to diagnose and evaluate without adequate, specialized equipment and expertise. Additionally, a thorough evaluation often requires a more extensive and specialized physical exam, imaging, and ophthalmologic consultation, all of which may not be readily available in the acute setting.Case presentationThis case report presented a patient in the emergency department with the chief complaint of vision loss. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) using the 10-MHz-linear-array probe, in the ocular setting, demonstrated calcification of the lens, a finding consistent with cataract in the right eye.ConclusionsThe use of POCUS can expedite the accurate identification of vision threatening pathology, such as cataracts, and streamline ED disposition and plan of care.