Set of Diploma Courses I: Physiology and Pathology of the Visual Organ Field of study: Physics
Programme code: W4-S2FZ19.2025

The module focuses on education in the field of physiology and pathology of the visual system, including the mechanisms of eye function and diseases that can disrupt its functioning. In addition, the module includes diagnostics and methods of treating the most common eye diseases, giving students a basis for understanding the role of an optometrist in recognizing the causes of vision problems. Lectures will discuss in detail the causes, mechanisms and effects of disorders leading to visual diseases. Training content: 1. 1. Physiology of the visual organ: • The structure of the eye and the role of the optical system in vision. • Mechanisms of refraction, adaptation, accommodation and convergence. • Functioning of the retina, processing of light stimuli by photoreceptors. • Conduction of visual impulses. • Regulation of intraocular pressure. 2. 2. Pathology of the visual organ: • Congenital defects of the eye. • Diseases of the protective apparatus of the eye. • Diseases of the cornea. • Diseases of the lens. • Diseases of the vascular membrane. • Glaucoma and other optic neuropathies. • Retinal diseases. • Visual disorders in the course of systemic diseases. 3. 3. Diagnostics of eye diseases: • Basic examinations: visual acuity, pupillary reaction, eye movement, refraction, slit lamp examination of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, intraocular pressure, field of vision. • Selected specialist tests: aberrometry , specular microscopy, corneal topography, OCT, electrophysiological tests. 4. Treatment of eye diseases • Drug treatment • Surgical treatment • - Prevention 5. Psychosocial aspects: • The impact of visual disturbances on the patient's quality of life and mental functioning. • Psychological aspects related to vision loss The module consists of theoretical lectures and practical exercises. Lectures present detailed issues in the field of physiology and pathology of the visual organ, while laboratory exercises allow students to familiarize themselves directly with diagnostic methods and devices used in eye diagnostics. As part of their own work, the student uses lecture notes and additional literature to consolidate the knowledge they have acquired. The module helps develop teamwork skills and effective communication with the medical team. The final exam of the module consists of a theoretical part, i.e. a knowledge test checking the understanding of physiological and pathological mechanisms, knowledge of diseases and diagnostic methods. Passing the laboratory part consists of performing diagnostics of selected pathologies of the organ of vision in laboratory conditions, including measurement of intraocular pressure, assessment of the condition of the cornea and retina, along with preparation of a report of the test results for assessment.