The frequency of ocular abnormalities in inpatient pediatric ophthalmology consultations

To determine the frequency, type, and results of pediatric ophthalmology service consultations at a tertiary care children's hospital and to offer advice as to the timing of the initial consultation based on the patient's diagnosis and likelihood of ocular disease,

A retrospective evaluation of inpatient ophthalmology consultations from September 1, 2003, to August 31, 2004, at Texas Children's Hospital was conducted. Patients were identified using the Current Procedural Terminology listing of billing codes for various levels of service for new initial inpatient consultations.

During the 1-year period, 445 new inpatient consultations were requested from the pediatric ophthalmology service, primarily to rule out ophthalmic problems or manifestations (55.9%) and to evaluate ocular complaints or ocular abnormalities as noted by the primary team (44.1%). Of the 445 patients, 215 (48.3%) were found to have ocular abnormalities and 230 (51.7%) had no ocular abnormalities at the time of initial consultation.

Patients with ocular signs or symptoms of disease should receive urgent ophthalmic consultation. Consideration should be given to the usefulness of urgent consultations in patients suspected of having fungemia, sepsis, and headache.