Student Name
Capella University
BIO FPX 1000 Human Biology
Prof. Name:
Date
The neuromuscular laboratory plays a crucial role in diagnosing muscle and nerve disorders. Services provided by the lab include immunological testing for autoimmune conditions, particularly those linked to neuronal antigens associated with brain disorders, as well as histopathology screening for muscle and nerve tissue samples. This assessment focuses on eye exams and the risks associated with not having regular checkups. Significant improvements in areas such as color vision, knee reflex, and pupil size are also highlighted.
Yearly eye exams are essential not only for maintaining sharp vision but also for monitoring overall eye health. Many eye diseases, particularly in their early stages, do not present evident symptoms, making annual exams crucial for early detection. Without these exams, individuals may mistakenly believe their vision is fine when, in fact, they may have underlying issues. Regular comprehensive eye checkups are vital for safeguarding vision and preventing eye diseases. Additionally, these exams can reveal broader health issues such as hypertension and diabetes. Everyone, especially those over 40 or 50, should have an annual eye exam to ensure their eyes are healthy and their vision is clear (Morthen et al., 2021).
Failing to undergo annual eye exams can lead to the development of conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and vision loss. Early diagnosis of myopia is crucial for timely treatment, reducing the likelihood of worsening over time. Eye diseases like glaucoma often present few clear symptoms, with partial blindness frequently being the earliest and most challenging symptom to diagnose (Stein et al., 2021).
Reflex tests are critical when neurodevelopmental symptoms are present above the neck. In many cases of neuromuscular disease, a proper bedside diagnosis can be made using reflex testing. This method provides pinpoint accuracy that other testing procedures cannot achieve, helping to determine whether a patient should be referred to a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or orthopedic specialist (West, 2023).
Neglecting reflex checks during diagnostic eye tests can result in undiagnosed infections and illnesses, delaying timely treatment and potentially exacerbating eye problems that could lead to brain trauma if untreated (West, 2023).
Patient Name | Derrick Mendez |
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Age | 22 years |
Healthcare Issue | Routine health checkup |
Color Blindness Test Report | Derrick cannot differentiate among colors, indicating a diagnosis of color blindness. |
Astigmatism Test Report | No indications of dark lines; the report is normal, with no eyesight problems. |
Visual Acuity Test Report | Vision is 20/20, indicating perfect clarity and normal vision. |
Knee Jerk Reflex Test Report | Normal response. |
Pupillary Light Reflex Test Report | Rapid alteration in pupil size; the response is normal, with both pupils reacting equally and simultaneously to light. |
Colorblindness, particularly inherited forms, remains a common condition with no known treatment. Most individuals find ways to adapt or accept their disability. Specialized eyewear, such as glasses or contacts, is the most effective treatment. Most colorblind individuals are able to function normally (Braddock, 2020).
Patient Name | Maria Hein |
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Age | 45 years |
Healthcare Issue | Reports headaches and difficulty focusing on near objects. |
Color Blindness Test Report | Colors can be differentiated; no diagnosis of color blindness. |
Astigmatism Test Report | Lines appear darker, indicating a diagnosis of astigmatism. |
Visual Acuity Test Report | Visual acuity is 20/30, meaning the patient can see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 30 feet; considered normal. |
Knee Jerk Reflex Test Report | Normal response. |
Pupillary Light Reflex Test Report | Rapid alteration in pupil diameter; response is normal, with both pupils reacting equally and simultaneously to light. |
There is no medical cure for astigmatism, but vision loss caused by it can be corrected with lenses. Refractive surgery is an option for those seeking a long-term solution to near-sightedness or far-sightedness. The cornea is surgically enhanced to improve light concentration (Fujimoto & Kiryu, 2021).
Patient Name | Edward Norton |
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Age | 70 years |
Healthcare Issue | Routine health checkup |
Color Blindness Test Report | Can differentiate between colors. |
Astigmatism Test Report | No darker lines observed. |
Visual Acuity Test Report | Visual acuity is 20/80, indicating difficulty seeing objects at 20 feet that those with normal vision can see at 80 feet; diagnosed with poor vision (short-sightedness). |
Knee Jerk Reflex Test Report | No leg movement observed; failed reflex movement, indicating possible knee reflex issues. |
Pupillary Light Reflex Test Report | No alteration in pupil size; diagnosed with dilated pupils. |
The patient has been diagnosed with dilated pupils, knee-jerk reflex issues, and poor eyesight. Vision loss, if any, is usually irreversible. Glasses, medication, or surgery may help improve vision or prevent further decline, but complete restoration is unlikely. Sunglasses, prosthetic contact lenses, and surgery are options for correcting dilated pupils. Failure in the knee reflex test suggests peripheral nervous system issues, requiring comprehensive diagnostics and testing before medication can be administered (Balakrishnan et al., 2022).
Routine medical check-ups should include evaluations of general physical health, the neurological system, and specific sensory abilities. Comprehensive eye exams that assess visual acuity can help identify conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Reflex testing evaluates the presence and intensity of various reflexes, while MRIs confirm the health of the nervous system and detect neuromuscular disorders.
Balakrishnan, A. C., Badrinarayanan, A., & Iqbal, A. (2022). Masking the red reflex of flash photography with prosthetic lenses. Eye & Contact Lens: Science & Clinical Practice. https://doi.org/10.1097/icl.0000000000000946
Braddock, C. H. (2020). Racism and bioethics: The myth of color blindness. The American Journal of Bioethics, 21(2), 28–32. https://doi.org/10.1080/15265161.2020.1851812
Fujimoto, H., & Kiryu, J. (2021). Efficacy of the super-retinal imaging display based on scanning laser technology in visual impairment induced by corneal diseases. Journal of Ophthalmology and Research, 4(3), 263–278. https://fortuneonline.org/articles/efficacy-of-the-superretinal-imaging-display-based-on-scanning-laser-technology-in-visual-impairment-induced-by-corneal-diseases.html
Morthen, M. K., Magno, M. S., Utheim, T. P., Snieder, H., Hammond, C. J., & Vehof, J. (2021). The physical and mental burden of dry eye disease: A large population-based study investigating the relationship with health-related quality of life and its determinants. The Ocular Surface, 21, 107–117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtos.2021.05.006
Stein, J. D., Khawaja, A. P., & Weizer, J. S. (2021). Glaucoma in adults—screening, diagnosis, and management: A review. JAMA, 325(2), 164–174. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.21899
West, C. (2023). The neurologic exam has not changed much, but new tools confirm the diagnosis. Neurology Today, 23(1), 8–9. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.nt.0000912456.64386.9c
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